// 



THE KBCORDS 



OF THE 



General Association 



OF y^ 



COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 



Begi:iii June 20tli, 1738. 
Ending Jnne lOtla, 1799. 



-tr,*^ 






HARTFORD, CONK: 
Press of The Case, Lockwood & Brainard Company. 

1888. 



\i\ 






9 7r 
'07 



• • .• 



• •• ••• 



PREFACE. 



The General Association of Connecticut, at its meeting in Rock- 
ville, June 21, 1887, appointed Messrs. E. B. Hillard, J. H. Twich- 
ell, and F. S. Hatch a committee to ask the General Conference to 
publish the manuscript Minutes of the General Association, a copy 
of which is deposited in Memorial Hall, 

At the suggestion of this committee, the General Conference, on 
the 9th of November following, j^assed this resolution at its meet- 
mg in Middletown : 

" Resolved, That it is desirable that the unpublished records of 
the General Association of Connecticut be published ; and it is 
hereby ordered that they be published under the superintendence 
of a committee to be appointed by the General Conference, in such 
way as it shall provide ; and that a copy of the minutes so pub- 
lished be furnished to every Congregational minister, and every 
Congregational church in the State." 

Messrs. Lavalette Perrin, William DeL. Love, Jr., and Charles 
H. Clark, were appointed a committee to execute this resolution. 

This committee in consultation agreed upon a literal transcript 
of the records, retaining as much as possible the peculiarities of 
the times as indicated by the record book itself, and assigned the 
labor of preparing for the press, and executing the details of pub- 
lication, to their chairman. 

The result is given in the volume now presented to the churches, 
and only a few words of explanation are called for in this connection. 

Any one who has made the attempt will understand the difficulty 
of transcribing ancient documents, so as to retain the peculiarities 
of spelling, punctuation, and capitals, with other unique items 
which give the flavor of antiquity to the text, and pay no defer- 
ence to modern grammatical rules. 

As far as possible the editor has endeavored to retain the appear- 
ance of the old record book in this volume. 



4 PREFACE. 

The Notes, the Index of names, and the Index of topics, are 
the result of no little care and labor on the part of the editor, and 
of course are no part of the original Records as found in the Book, 
but are added to render the volume more available for reference. 

While there will be found some errors and defects in the book, 
it is hoped they are not so numerous or serious as to hinder its 
usefulness, or provoke needless criticism. 

The reader who has the candor to place himself in the circum- 
stances of the actors, will look in vain through these records for 
marks of such bigotry as some have attributed to our fathers. On 
the contrary, the circumstances being duly considered, a sincerity 
and nobility of character mark the doings here recorded, for which 
all candid readers will be thankful to God, who gave us such an 
ancestry. 

The churches of the State are indebted to a few liberal individu- 
als and churches, for the means with which to place these records 
within the reach of all who desire to consult them. The money 
thus freely given may be regarded as a tribute to the memory of 
the fathers, and a boon to coming generations. 

Lavalette Perrin. 
Torrington, Aug. 13, 1888. 



1 738. 

At a convention of tlie General Association of the Colony 
of Connecticut, at Stratford in the County of Fairfield on the 
20*^ day of June 1738 

Present 



/I 



The Rev.d { 



I 



Mr. William Burnham, Mod' 
Mr. Jacob Hemingway 
Mr. Samuel Cook 
Mr. Hezekiah Gold 
Mr. Thomas Clap, Scribe 
Mr. Thomas Ruggles 
Mr. Ashbel Woodbridge 
Mr. Elnathan Whitman 
Mr. Ephraim Bostwick 
Mr. William Hart. 



Voted & Resolved, that there shall be a Convention of 
the General Association of this Colony, consisting of Two Del- 
egates from each Perticular Association, to meet in the sev- 
eral Counties successively in the following Order, viz : in the 
Counties of Fairfield, New Haven, Hartford, Windham & New 
London, & at such Towns in the said Counties as the Associa- 
tion shall from time to time appoint; on the Third Tuesday 
in June, annually at eleven of the clock in the forenoon: 
Whose Work & Business according to our Ancient Constitu- 
tion & Practice, is & shall be, To take care of & Inspect 
the General State of Religion, to Promote Unity & Order in 
our Ecclesiastical Affairs, & to Recommend to the Consider- 
ation of the Particular Associations such matters & things as 
they shall Apprehend to be for the General Good. And that 
the Particular Association in whose Bounds the General 



6 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Association shall be convened, shall appoint a Minister to 
Preach a Public Lecture upon that Occasion. 

Voted, That the Delegates of each perticular Association 
shall take an Attested Copy of all the Acts which are Passed 
in each perticular Session of the General Association, & 
deliver it to each perticular Association which sent them, to 
be Recorded or Kept on File. And that the Scribe of the 
General Association, after he has Entered the Acts of each 
Session in the Book, shall Convey the Book to the Place 
where the next General Association is Appointed to be Kept. 

This Association having Read & Considered the Rev. Mr. 
Holmes'* Proposals respecting Ecclesiastical affairs, do 
Recommend the same to the Consideration of tlie several 
perticular Associations, & do Desire them to send their Opin- 
ion upon the said Proposals to the next General Association 
— Whether would be convenient for the Churches to come 
into some one or more of them. 

A Question Proposed — Whether the Infant Slaves of 
Christian Masters may be Baptized in their Master's Right : 
Provided they Suitably Promise and Engage to bring them 
up in the Ways of Religion ? 

Resolved in the Affirmative. 

Another Question Proposed — Whether it is the Duty of 
such Masters to offer such Children & to Promise as afore- 
said ? Resolved in the Affirmative. 

Voted — that it be Recommended to the several perticular 
Associations to come into a Resolve, That every Candidate 
for the Ministry, shall pass the Examination & Approbation 
of the Association after he has had a Call to Settle in any 
perticular Place within their Bounds, & some suitable time 
before the Fast previous to the Ordination, & that no Minister 
shall assist in any Ordination without a Certificate That he 
has Passed such Examination & Approbation. Unless they 
have come into such a Resolve already. 

Voted That the next General Association shall be at the 
Rev. Mr. Samuel Whittlesey's of Wallingford in the County 
of New Haven. 



op the colony op connecticut. 7 

Notes. 

\ Rev. William Burnham was pastor of the cluirch in 
Kensington from 1712 to 1750. Mod' in 1738 at Stratford. 

\ Rev. Jacob Hemingway was pastor of the chnrcli in 
East Haven from 1711 to 1754. Mod' in 1743 at Fairfield. 

■'. Rev. Samuel Cook was pastor of the First Church in 
Bridgeport from 1715 to 1747. 

'. Rev. Hezekiah Gold was pastor of the church in Strat- 
ford from 1720 to 1752. 

\ Rev. Thomas Clap was pastor of the church in Wind- 
ham from 1726 to 1739. He was called from this church to 
the Presidency of Yale College. 

\ Rev. Tliomas Ruggles was pastor of the First Church 
in Guilford from 1695 to 1728, & Rev. Thomas Riiggles Jr. 
from 1729 to 1770. Mod' in 1766 at Guilford & 1767 at 
Mid°^"". 

\ Rev. Ashbel Woodbridge was pastor of the First Church 
in Glastenbury from 1728 to 1758. 

^ Rev. Elnathan Whitman was pastor of the 2'"^*, or Soutli 
Church in Hartford from 1733 to 1777. Mod' in 1772 at 
Waterbury. 

^ Rev. Ephraim Bostwick was pastor of the First Church 
in Greenwich from 1730 to 1746. 

'\ Rev. William Hart was pastor of the church in Say- 
brook from 1736 to 1783. 



1 740. 

Att a Convention of the General Association of the Colony 
of Connecticut att Hartford June 17*^^ 1740 

Present — 

^Mr. Tim Edwards Mod"" ' 

Mr. Sam' ^ Woodbridge "" 

Mr. Isaac Stiles ' 

Ashy Woodbridge, Scribe * 

Mr. Ephr'^^ Little ' 

Mr. Jonath" Parsons" 

Mr. Elisha Kent ' 
KMr. Will'" Gaylord^ 



The Rev.^^ { 



8 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Upon the consideration of j^ Importance of Duly qualified 
Persons being i^ecommended to Preach y^' Gospel & put into 
y^ Ministry, and y^ dangerous consequence of y^ contrary — 
Voted (for the present) To Recommend to Such particular 
Associations as do not practice them, the Rules for Examin- 
ing Candidates for the Ministry agreed upon by y'' General 
Association att tlieir Convention att Fairfield Sept. 4^'' 1712. 

Voted y* for y^ preventing of Such Disorders & Difficulties 
as have already arisen in Some of our Churches, or in case 
of neglects may hereafter arise — It be earnestly recom- 
mended to y*" particular Associations that have not yet come 
into the practice To Keep close to y*^ Platform in calling 
Ecclesiastical Decisive Councils according to y^ 7"' Article of 
the same. 

Voted y* the next General Association be att y^ Rev. Mr 
Solomon Williams's at Lebanon on y"" 3'^ Tuesday of June 
Next att 11 of y*^ clock A. M. 

Notes. 

\ Rev. Timothy Edwards was the pastor of the church in 
South Windsor from 1695 to 1755. He was the father of 
Jonathan Edwards, & married the daughter of the Rev. Solo- 
mon Stoddard. Mod' in 1740 at Hartford. 

^ Rev. Samuel Woodbridge was pastor of the church in 
East Hartford from 1705 to 1746. 

'. Rev. Isaac Stiles was pastor of the church in North 
Haven from 1724 to 1760. 

*. Rev. Ashbel Woodbridge was pastor of the church in 
Glastenbury from 1728 to 1758. 

\ Rev. Ephraim Little was pastor of the church in Col- 
chester from 1732 to 1787. He was Mod'' in 1763 at Lyme. 

\ Rev. Jonathan Parsons was pastor of the church in 
Lyme, now Old Lyme, from 1730 to 1745. 

'. Rev. Elisha Kent was pastor of the church in Newtown 
from 1732 to 1743. 

^ Rev. William Gaylord was pastor of the church in Wil- 
ton from 1733 to 1765. He was Mod' at Windham in 1751. 



The Rev^ 



< 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 9 

1 74 1 . 

Att a Convention of the General Association of the Colony 
of Connecticut at Lebanon in the County of Windham on the 
3^' Tuesday of June 1741 

Present 

f Mr. Eleazer Williams, Mod' 
Mr. Stephen Steel 
Mr. Solomon Williams 
Mr. Thomas White 

Ephraim Little Scribe 
Mr. George Beck with 
Mr. Jonathan Todd 
Mr. Joseph Bellamy 

This Association from what the particular members find 
among their own people, & from what they hear from Divers 
parts, being persuaded that there is great reason of thankful- 
ness to God for an Extraordinary revival of religion in this 
Land, and being sensible of the great necessity of union, Zeal & 
Diligence in the ministry in order to further & carry on that 
great & good work, Voted to reccommend it to the particular 
Associations to keep up frequent Lectures in their respective 
parishes, and to interchange their Labors & help with one 
another for their mutual assistance and encouragement. 

And it appearing to us of great Consequence to keep up & 
maintain a union in their Sentiments in the great Doctrines 
of Religion, in order to tlieir living Charitably and with 
Brotherly affection and to prevent hard thoughts & hasty 
Censures one of another. Voted to Recommend it to the par- 
ticular Associations to be very free to enform each other of 
their Sentiments in the great doctrines of Religion, and to 
endeavor to know whether they are in the same way of 
thinking on the Calvinissticall Doctrines and particularly on 
the Doctrine of Justification, and the nature of Conversion 

2 



10 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

and Regeneration ; and that they be free in Conversing 
together on Experimental! Religion and be agreed how far 
the Christian law of mutual forbearance and Charity ought 
to extend with respect to these matters. And 'tis desired 
that the thoughts of each particular Association and the 
nethod they shall come into the practice of hereupon, be 
communicated to the next General Association, in order to a 
union as far as possible on these heads. 

Voted to be recommended to the particular Associations to 
take it into their Serious Consideration whether there ought 
not to be more weight laid upon the matters transmitted to 
them from the General Association than has been usually 
done heretofore, and whether if due Care was taken about 
these matters and in attendance upon the meetings of the 
General Association that might not be more useful and 
Servicable to the great end of its agreement or Constitution. 

Voted that the next General Association be at the Rev'^ 
Mr. Eliphalet Adam's at New London on the 3'^ Tuesday of 
June next at eleven of the clock A.M., But if he cannot con- 
veniently Receive it, that it be at the Rev". Mr. William 
Worthington's of Saybrook at the time afore said. 

Notes. 

Pastor at Mansfield from 1710 to 1742. 

" at Tolland from 1722 to 1758. 

" at Lebanon from 1722 to 1776. 

" at Bolton from 1725 to 1763. 

" at Hamburg in Lyme from 1730 to 1772. 

" at East Guilford from 1733 to 1791. 

" at Bethlem from 1738 to 1789. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. H 

1 742. 

Att a Convention of the General Association of the Colony 
of Connecticutt at New London Jnne 15: 1742 

Present 

Mr. Eliphalett Addams Moderator 
Mr. Stephen Hosmer 
Mr. Sam'' Dorrance 
Mr. Benja"' Colton Scribe 
The Rev. Messrs -<( Mr. Thomas Ruggles 

Mr. Noah Hobart 
Mr. Daniel Wads worth 
Mr. Theophilus Hall 
Mr. Ephraim Little 

The Meeting was opened with Prayer. 

This Gen^ Association after humble addressing ourselves 
to God for his blessing upon us, and Direction to be given us 
in all our Consultations, Being of opinion that the God of 
all grace has been mercifully pleased to Remember and visit 
his people by Stiring up Great Numbers among us to a con- 
cern for their Souls, and to be asking the way to Zion with 
their faces thitherward. Which we desire to take notice of 
with Great Thankfulness to God the Father of Mercies. 

Being also of the opinion that the great Enemy of Souls 
who is ever ready with his Devices to Check Damp & Destroy 
if possible the Work of God, is very busy for that purpose, 
We think it our duty to advise & Entreat the Ministers & 
Churches of the Colony, and recommend it to the Severall 
Associations to Stand well upon their guard in Such a day 
as this is That no detriment do arise to the interests of our 
great Lord & Master Jesus Christ — 

Particularly that no Errors in Doctrine whether from 
among ourselves or foreigners, nor disorders in practice do 
get in among us, or tares be sown in the Lord's Field. 

That seasonable and due testimony be borne against such 



12 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Errors & Irregularities as doe already prevail among some 
persons, As Particularly the Depending upon & following 
Impulses & impressions made on the mind as th'o they were 
immediate Revelations of Some truth, or Duty that is not 
ReveaP in the Word of God — Laying too much Weight 
upon hodily agitations. Raptures, Extacies, Visions • &c — 
Ministers disorderly intruding into other Minister's parishes 
— Laymen taking it upon them in an unwarrantahle manner 
publicly to teach and Exhort — Rash Censuring & Judging 
of others — 

That the Elders be careful to take heed to themselves & 
Doctrine that they may save themselves and those that hear 
them ; That they Approve themselves in all things as the 
Ministers of God, by Honor & dishonor, by good Report & 
evil Report, that none be Lifted up by applause to a vain 
conceit, nor any be cast down by any contempt thrown upon 
them to the neglect of their work : And that they study 
Unity, Love and peace among themselves. — And farther that 
they Endeavour to heal the unhappy Divisions that are 
already made in Some churches : and that the like may in 
the future be prevented. 

That a just defference be paid to the laws of the Christian 
Magistrate : lately made for the Suppression of Disorder 

That no countenance be given to such as trouble the 
Churches, who are according to the Constitution of our 
Churches under Censure, Suspension or Deposition, Wbiether 
for Errors in Doctrine or Life. 

Humbly praying that our Great lord & Master, Jesus Christ 
who is head over all things to his Church will preserve it in 
purity & peace : That he will go on Conquering & to Conquor 
Till not an Enemy to his Holy Truth & Ways shall be left 
among us, And that the Lord's Kingdom may come & his 
Will be done in Earth as it is in Heaven — 

Voted that the next Meeting of the General Association be 
at Fairfield At the Rev. Mr. Nloah Hobarts on the Third 
Tuesday of June next at Eleven a Clock Before Noon. 

Unanimously voted by the association, 
Test Benja: Colton Scribe. 



op the colony of connecticut. 13 

Notes. 

Pastor V Church New London from 1708 to 1753. 
1^^ Clmrch East Haddam from 1704 to 1749. 
at Voluntown & Sterling from 1723 to 1770. 
at West Hartford from 1713 to 1754. 
at Fairfield from 1733 to 1773. 
1^^ Church Hartford from 1732 to 1747. 
V Church Meriden from 1729 to 1767. 



1 743. 

Att a Convention of the Gen'^ Association of the Colony of 
Connecticutt att Fairfield June 21^* ^^743 

Pres'^ — 

Mr. Jacob Hemingway Mod'. 
Mr. Sam'' Cook 
\ Mr. William Russel Scribe 
^ Mr. William Worthington 
The Rev''. '. Mr. Moses Dickinson 
\ Mr. Timothy Collins 
Mr. Thomas Puggles 
/ Mr. Noah Hobart 

Mr. Ashbel Woodbridge. 

The meeting was opened with Prayer. This General Asso- 
ciation are of opinion that altho'; as it was observed by the 
Gen" Association Last year that God hath been pleased 
graciously to visit his people &g Yet thro' the Subtle 
Devices of Satan and the great Corruption there is in the 
hearts of men and the Enmity there is in them against Relig- 
ion in the power & purity of it, there are diverse things w.^'' 
have a threat'ning aspect on the Interest of Religion in Gen" 
in the Land and in this Government in perticular for the 
Removing and preventing of which we Recommend it to the 
particular Associations that they be very careful 

1. that the true and great Doctrines of the Gospel agree- 
able to our Confession of faith be maintained & preacht up, 



14 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

against the Arminian Antinomian and other errors : and 
that special Care & pains be taken with our youth to Instruct 
them in the principles of our holy Religion and articles of 
our faith. * 

2. to maintain the credit of the ordinances of the Gospel 
Especially the word of God contained in the holy Scriptures 
as the outward and ordinary means of Salvation. 

3. to maintain the order & Government that Christ hath 
Established in his visible C'h, and that they do not counte- 
nance any breaking in upon it : By persons Departing from 
or neglecting the Worship and Communion of the assemblies 
and churches to which they belong on a supposition of the 
ministers or many of the members being unconverted, or in 
cold dead frames 

or bv ministers and churches Receivinsr to Communion 
those that are under Censure in the Churches to which they 
belong, . 

or by ministers going into other minister's parishes and 
preaching or administering the Seals contrary to the mind 
of the settled minister of the place 

But that they preserve a steady discipline and bear a proper 
testimony against all imorallities and Impieties yet with such 
patience & meekness as the nature and circumstances of the 
cases Require. 

And we would Recomend it to our Brethren in the ministry 
as of great importance to the advancement of the Interest of 
Christ that they take heed to themselves that they be exam- 
ples to their flocks in all holy cenversation and godliness. 

Yoted. 

Voted that the next annual meeting of the Gen^^ associa- 
tion be at the Rev. Mr. Chauncy's of Durham on the third 
tuesday of June next at eleven of the clock beforenoon. 

Notes. 

\ Pastor l^t Middletown from 1715 to 1761. 
\ " Westbrook from 1726 to 1756. 
\ " Norwalk from 1727 to 1765. 
\ " 1^* Litchfield from 1723 to 1752. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 15 

1 744. 

Att a Convention of the Gen" Association of the Colony 
of Connecticutt att Durham June 19 : 1741: 

Pres' 
'. Mr. Nathaniel Chauncey Mod' 
^ Mr. Jared Eliot 

Mr. William Russell Scribe 

Mr. Benjamin Colton 
The Rev'^ \ Mr. Sam" Hall 

'. Mr. John Goodsell 
\ Mr. Simon Backus 

Mr. Daniel Wadsworth 

Mr. George Beckwith 
^ Mr. Ebenezer Devotion 

The Convention was open'd w'th prayer and the following 
Resolves and Conclusions were unanimously come into. 

Viz : 1. That — Whereas at all times but more Especially 
at this time Sundry persons Unjustly disaffected to and 
prejudiced against Either the minister or Ch ; or both to 
which they belong under the Influence of Such disaffection 
withdraw from their worship & Comunion ; and allthough 
as yet they are under no Censure, Yet we think that other 
ministers & Ch^ receiving such disaffected persons to 
privileges Serves to Incourage and Strengthen them in their 
unjust disaffection & unreasonable Separation w'ch to pre- 
vent it may be proper that the minister by himself or in 
Conjunction with some of the Brethren of such C'h from wh^^ 
there is such separation Write to the minister or ministers 
of such C'h or Ch' to w'li the afores''^ disaffected members 
repair for privileges and in a Brotherly & kind manner 
represent to them the true State of Such members & Ch^ 
desiring them to discountenance &, prevent Such Separations, 
and in case a minister or ministers so Informed and applied 
to shall still receive & incourage such persons that then the 



16 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Complainant Lay the matter before the Association to w'ch 
that minister doth belong that so the Association deal w^^ 
him as the nature and circumstances of the case doth 
require. And Inasmuch as we Judge that such Separations 
countenanced as aboves*^ is the source and original of much 
difficulty and a practice big \v^^ many mischiefs we earnestly 
recomend the affair to the perticular Associations that in 
this or some other way they provide against so great an evil 
that may be by divine blessing soon & easily prevented or 
cured. And that ministers should be very cautious of enter- 
taining such dissaftected persons & of hearing & countenanc- 
ing their reports of or against their ministers & Ch'. 

2. Whither a minister or a number of ministers Entring 
into any Established parish in this Government & there 
Gathering a C^ of members that had before disorderly 
separated themselves from the C' to w'^'' they belonged, and 
some of them actually under Ecclesiastical censure, be not 
matter of offence. 

Voted in the Affirmative * 

3. Whither to require persons perticularly to promise to 
walk in comunion w^'' this Ch of Christ into w'ch they Seek 
admission conscienciously attending and up holding the 
Public worship of God in this place till regularly dismis* 
therefrom be a hard or unreasonable term of Comunion. 

Resolve in the negative. 

And we think it not Advisable to admit a person to Com- 
union that refuses to Submit to the abovementioned terms. 

But Insists on being at Liberty to go to other places when 
and where he pleases to attend the public worship & 
ordinances 

4. Whither Males in full Comunion being under the 
age of 21 years have right to vote in C'h affairs ? 

Voted that this question be refer'd to the perticular 
Associations for their Resolves upon it, to be sent in to the 
next Gen^^ Association. 

Voted that the next Gen^^ Association be at Newington 
in the County of Hartford at the Rev,'^ Mr. Backus's on the 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICDT. 



17 



third Tuesday of June next at eleven of the clock in tlie 
forenoon. 

Notes. 

Pastor l'^^ Durham from 1711 to 1756. 
Clinton from 1709 to 1763. 
Cheshire from 1724 to 1776. 
Greenfield from 1726 to 1756. 
Newington from 1725 to 1745. 
Scotland from 1735 to 1771. 



1745. 

Att a Convention of the General Association of the Colony 
of Connecticut at Newington in the County of Hartford on 
the 18th Day of June 1745 

Present 

f Mr. Benjamin Colton, Mod' 

Mr. Abraham Nott. 

Mr. Jacob Eliot. 

„- ^ , , Mr. Ashbel Woodbridffe. 
The Kev.^ -( ^^ c t> i 

s Mr. feimon Bacchus. 

Elnathan Whitman, Scribe 

Mr. William Gaylord. 

Mr. Ephraim Avery. 



The Meeting was opened with Prayer and the following 
Resolves were come into. 

Whereas there has of late years been many Errors in Doc- 
trine, and Disorders in Practice, prevailing in the Churches 
of this Land, which seem to have a threatening aspect upon 
these Churches ; and whereas Mr. George Whitefield has 
been the Promoter, or at least the Faulty occasion of many 
of these Errors and Disorders, this Association think it need- 
full for them to declare that if the said Mr. Whitefield should 
make his progress thro' this Government, it would by no 
3 



18 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

means be advisable for any of our Ministers to admitt him 
into their Pulpits, or for any of our people to attend upon 
his Preaching and Administrations. 

Voted in the affirmative. 

This Association apprehending that Ecclesiastical Dis- 
cipline has been greatly neglected in our Churches 
and that the Revival of it, & keeping of it up, is of 
great Importance to the Welfare of the Churches, would 
Recommend it to the several particular Associations 
to consider whether it be not Needful for them to Endeavour 
to revive and keep up a strict discipline in our Churches 
according to the Order of the Gospel. 

Voted by this Association that it be recommended to the 
several particular Associations to consider whether it may 
not be a good expedient to prevent Difficulty in the Manage- 
ment of Discipline in our Churches, that whenever any of 
the Members of our Churches remove their habitation from 
one Town or Parish to another, that they be actually dis- 
missed or recommended from the Church from which they 
remove, in Order to their being taken under the Care and 
Watch of the Church to which they remove. 

Voted that the next General Association be at the Rev'^ 
Mr. Jacob Eliot's at Goshen in Lebanon, on the third 
Tuesday of June next at eleven of the clock in the forenoon. 

Notes. 

\ Pastor at Centerbrook from 1725 to 1756. 

" Goshen, Lebanon from 1729 to 1766. 

\ " 2'^^ Hartford from 1733 to 1767. 

\ " Brooklyn, Pomfret from 1735 to 1754. 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 19 



1746. 

Att a Convention of the Association of the Colony of Con- 
necticut at Goshen in Lebanon on the 3'' Tuesday of June 
1746 

Present — 

Mr. Henry Willes 
Mr. Stephen Steel Mod' 
Mr. Jacob Eliott 
Mr. Thomas White 
The Rev'^ ^ Mr. Isaac Stiles 

Mr. Marston Cabott 

Ephraim Little Scribe 
Mr. William Gaylord 
Mr. Benjamin Woodbridge 

This Convention was opened by prayer and the following- 
Resolves were unanimously come into viz : 

That it be recommended by this Association to the Several 
particular Associations in the Colony to consider whether it 
is not a very proper thing for the Ministers of this Govern- 
ment unitedly to make a Sutable Address to his Majesty, our 
rightfull Sovereign King George on the occasion of the pres- 
ent war — the Rebellion at home, the Success of his Majes- 
tie's Arms in the reduction of Cape Britton, and elsewhere, 
as well as on the expedition against Canada. 

It was proposed, whether the pretence of better Edification 
be sufficient to Justify persons in their withdrawing from a 
Particular church to which they belong ; either from the 
Communion or public worship of the Same, or both, and for 
their attending either Statedl}^ in other Churches where they 
pretend they can be better edified. 

Resolved in the Negative. 

The Rev. Mr. Henry Willes pastor of the 2"*^ Church of 
Christ in Norwich represented to us the State of the Church 
with them. That a long time hath passed since the Sacrament 



20 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

of the Lord's Supper was administered, and that he the s'*^ 
Mr. Willes & brethren attending his ministry, having pursued 
all measures that have been prescribed to them by the last 
Council to accomodate their differences, and desiring our 
advise whether it be Convenient for him to administer the 
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper to those of his Church that 
are meet & willing Communicants, 

Yoted in the Affirmative, and according advised that the 
Rev. Mr. Willes administer the Sacrament of the holy Supper. 

The question was put whether a Complaint by any mem- 
ber or members of a Church against a Number of the Same 
Church (th'o y^ Major part of s''^ church of which the Com- 
plainant or complainants are Members) for Scandalous vio- 
lation or violations of ^any rule or rules of God's word, may 
and ought to be exhibited to the Pastor of s"^ Church in order 
to be communicated for their Consideration & determination ? 

Voted in the Affirmative. 

It was proposed whether the Persons complained of as 
afores'd ought to be allowed y^ priviledge of voting in their 
own Case in any Church-meeting at which they are Called to 
an account for their misconduct ? 

Yoted in the Negative. 

Voted that the next meeting of the General Association 
be at the E-ev.'' Mr. William Worthington's of Saybrook, if 
he is willing to receive it — otherwise that it be at the Rev. 
Mr. William Hart's in Saybrook afores*^, on the S'^ Tuesday 
of June next at Eleven of the clock in the forenoon. 

Notes. 

\ Pastor in Franklin from 1718 to 1753. 
^ " " Thompson " 1730 to 1756. 
\ " " Woodbridge " 1742 to 1783. 



Tlie Rev. Mess'. 



< 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 21 

1 747. 

Att a meeting of y'' General Association of y'' Colony of 
Connecticut at Saybrook, West Parish, in y'" County of New- 
London June 16 : A. D. 1747 

Present 

Jared Eliott Mod"". 
Wil'" Worthington 
Jonathan Merick Scribe 
Isaac Clialker 
Jonathan Todd 
Ephraim Avery 
Gideon Mills 
\ I James Cogswell 

The Convention was opened with prayer, and y"" Ques" 
being put, whether it be agreeable to Gospel order for y'' 
members of particular Chh* to attend upon y*^ Sacriment in 
y*^ chh or chh's to which they belong, Generally at other 
times to worship in other Societies although regular and 
Established — 

This Case as to Substance hath been resolved already, by 
y^ General Association June 19 A. D. 1744, as may be seen 
by the records of y^ s'' Association — and we think that 
Those persons are offenders and to be Dealt with as Such, 
who although yy attend y"^ Sacriment in y*" chh or chh's to 
which yy Belong yet at other times make a Practice of with- 
drawing from y^ worship of y^ Same, Excepting the Circum- 
stances of Cituation do make it more convenient to attend y'^ 
Divine worship else where ; and even in that Case we think 
it Disorderly to withdraw as affore*"*, without the Consent of 
y® Church. 

Whereas we understand y^ y^ Book of Discipline and Con- 
fession of faith agreed upon at Saybrook are Scarce in our 
Chhs, and that y"" Secretary hath a Number of y™ in his 
Custody (which is at his Dispose) we desire y^ Rev. Mr. 



22 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Chalker of Easbury in y"" name of this Association to apply 
to him for, receive and divide y"" same in y*" several Counties 
in this Colony, and send y"' as soon as may be, and we think 
it advisable that one of s'^ books do always accompany y"^ 
Book of records of y^ several Associations, That it may be 
always present in y^ respective Conventions to be used upon 
occasion. 

Voted that y^ next Meeting of y® Gen'^ Association be at 
y^ Rev. John Goodell's at Fairfield if he is willing to receive 
it, otherwise tliat it be at y"" Rev. Mr. Hann's at Reading on 
y*" 3"^ Tusday of June next at eleven of y"^ clock in y^ 
fore-noon. 

Notes. 

Pastor in Westbrook from 1726 to 1756. 
" North Brandford from 1716 to 1769. 

" East Glastonbury from 1744 to 1765. 

" Simsbury from 1744 to 1754. 

" Canterbury from 1744 to 1771 & 

Scotland from 1772 to 1804. 



1748. 

At a Convention of the General Association of the Colony 
of Connecticut at Reading in the County of Fairfield June 
21, 1748 

Present 

Mr. Benjamin Colton Mod.'' 

Mr. Noah Hobart 

Mr. John Goodsel 
'. Sam.^ Whittlesey jun, Scribe 

The Rev.^ \ Mr. Moses Bartlett 
^ Mr. Nathaniel Hunn 
\ Mr. Hezekiah Bissell 

Mr. Joseph Bellamy 
'. Mr. Nathan Birdsey 

The Moderator opened the meeting with prayer. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 23 

This Association taking into Serious Consideration the 
great importance of instructing Children in their most early 
years in the Principles of Christianity, and ohserving tliat 
altho' the Assemblies Shorter Catechism be a most excellent 
Summary of the Christian Religion, and what we would by 
no means have laid aside or disused, yet tliink that some 
plain (fe easy Introduction to it to be learned by Children 
before they are of a suitable age to enter upon that Cate- 
chism might be of great advantage, would earnestly recom- 
mend to our people the use of the Rev/' Dr. Watts's excel- 
lent Setts of Catechisms and think that a new edition of 
them would be of great Service. In the use of those Cate- 
chisms we would recommend it to Parents to begin with the 
first of them as soon as their Children are capable of learn- 
ing it, which will naturally bring them to enter upon the 
Assemblies Catechism at the proper age for using it to ad- 
vantage ; and if the particular associations w^ould agree to 
Encourage and forward one another in introducing this 
method of catechizing in their several Congregations we 
think it might be an happy means of promoting Religion 
among us. 

This association understanding that the Confession of 
Faith and Articles of Chh Discipline agreed upon at Saybrook 
are very scarce in our Churches, and that a number of said 
Books are in the hands of the Secretary to be disposed of, & 
finding that the last G-eneral Association had desired the 
Rev."^ Mr. Chalker of Eastburj to apply to the Secretary for 
them & distribute them in the Several Counties, but not hav- 
ing heard that Mr. Chalker hath so done, we desire the Rev.^ 
Mr. Colton & the Rev."^ Mr. Whitman of Hartford to under- 
take that affair; and if there be not a sufficiency found with 
the Secretary we desire said Gentlemen to Present to the 
Gen'^ Assembly at their next Sessions the great want of 
these Books, and move for a new edition. 

This Association Observing the great prevalence of vice & 
prophaneness, and a Lamentable Indifference in Spiritual 
Concerns among our people, & having Seriously considered 



24 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

what likely method can be taken to awaken our people & 
Revive a spirit of Seriousness and practical Religion among 
us, are of opinion that for Ministers in their Several parishes 
to take frequent Opportunies & Discourse in private with 
particular persons upon Religious & eternal things, & to 
make a personal Address to them, would have a happy ten- 
dency to beget a Spirit of Seriousness, and to Revive' true 
Religion among us, do therefore earnestly recommend it to 
our Several Associations to Encourage & promote such a 
practice among them. 

Voted that the next meeting of the Gen.' Association be 
at the House of the Rev.*^ Mr. Joseph Noyes of New Haven, 
on the 3"' Tuesday of June next at eleven o'clock A. M. 

Test Sam" Whittlesey Jun. Scribe 

Notes. 

\ Pastor in Wallingford from 1709 to 1752. 

\ '^ 1^^ Portland from 1733 to 1766. 

^ " Redding from 1733 to 1749. 

\ " Bloomfield from 1738 to 1783. 

\ " West Haven from 1742 to 1758. 



1749. 

There were so few Delegates came to the Gen'' Associa- 
tion appointed to be at the Rev. Mr. Noyes's of New Haven 
the third Tuesday of June 1749 that t'was thought not best 
to enter on any business ; Only to appoint the next Gen' ' 
Ass.'' to be at Hartford at the house of the Rev.'' Mr. Benja- 
min Colton on the third Tuesday of June next at Eleven of 
the Clock A. M. and to Notifie the Several Ass. that had not 
Delegates pr's't, this I was Desir'd to Enter in the Ass. 
Book. 

New Haven June 20, 1749 

William Russell 



OF THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 26 



1750. 

Att a Convention of the General Association of the Colony 
of Connecticut In West Hartford June 19, 1750 

Present 

Mr. William Russell, Moderator 
Mr. Benjamin Colton 
The ReV. Mr. Stephen Steal 

Mr. William Gaylord 
Mr. John Trumble Scribe ' 

This Association finding of it Enter'd In our Book that 
there were so few members of the General association met 
the Last year att the Rev^. Mr. Joseph Noyes's att New 
Haven that the Gentlemen did not think it Prudent to enter 
upon Business. And now there being so few Present ; we 
were in Suspence whether It was best for us to form Into an 
association, yet at length concluded that we would — and Do 
hereby Inform the Perticular associations that if this associa- 
tion is so Thinly attended by reason of Sickness or the Like ; 
we Look upon it a sore frown of Providence. But if it's thro 
Negligence or Carelessness we suppose that it argues too 
Little Regard to the Constitution and would Intreat of Every 
Perticular association that they would by no means omit 
appointing of Delegates from time to time ; and that Those 
Gentlemen that are so appointed would be Careful to attend 
accordingly ; that so the good Ends Proposed In the meetings 
may not be wholy frustrate and disapointed. 

Voted that the Next meeting of the General association be 
att the house of the Rev. Mr. Stephen Whites of Windham 
on the S'^ Tuesday of June Next att Eleven o'clock A.M. 

Test John Trumble Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Pastor at Watertown from 1739 to 1784. 
4 



26 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



1751. 

At a Convention of the General Association of the Colony 
of Connecticutt at Windham in the County of Windham 
June 18 : 1761 

Present 

^Daniel Fuller 
William Gaylord 
Ebenezer Devotion 
\ Benjamin Pomroy 
Stephen White 
Noah Welles 
Edward Dorr. 



The Rev^^ Mess^ 



Mr. Gaylord was chosen Moderator, and Mr. Welles Scribe. 
Prayer was attended by the Moderator. 

A motion being made in this Association that an Address 
of Condolence be presented to his Majesty, and another to 
the Princess of Wales, in the Name of the General Associa- 
tion, upon the Mournful Occasion of the late Death of his 
Royal Highness Frederick, Prince of Wales, and accordingly 
an Address in each case being laid before the Association 
for their Consideration, after particular Examination and 
some few Corrections it was Unanimously voted that said 
Addresses be forthwith Offered as soon as opportunity 
presents. 

Voted that said Addresses be inclosed in a Letter to Ben- 
jamin Avery Esqr. of London Doctor of Laws with a desire 
in the Name of this Assoc" that he would be pleas''^ to pre- 
sent s''^ Addresses accordingly. 

Voted that Mr. Devotion and Mr. White transcribe y® said 
Addresses, and forward them by the first Opportunity inclos'd 
in a Letter to Docf Avery in the Name of the Moderator. 

The Association recommend it to the Several Associations 
within the Colony, to prepare, each Association, a Draught, 
and send it by their Respective Delegates to the next General 
Assoc'', out of which they may draw a Plan to be. first sent 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 27 

to the Several Consociations for their approbation, which 
being Obtained, to be prefer'^ to the Hon'*" General Assembly 
for their Sanction upon it — which Plan to Contain in it — 

1. This addition to the present Ecclesiastical Constitution 
of Gov.^ viz : that there be a General Consociation of ^linis- 
ters and Churches, Two ministers and two Messengers from 
each Consociation to make up said General Consociation, To 
which there may be appeals from the Judgment of particular 
Consociations. 

2. This alteration in it, that there shall be no Vote in any 
Consociation within tlie Establishment, without a Majority 
both of Elders and Messengers present in it. 

3. That in Ordinary cases, no Complaint shall be in the 
Church or Consociation against any Church Member, for a 
Crime committed. So long before Process that the Civil Court 
would reject it, or does refuse a Process, merely upon account 
of the age of the Crime complain'd of. 

It is Judged advisable by this Assoc" that there be for the 
Future, a General Convention of the Ministers of this Colony 
at New Haven the Day after the Commencement annually, 
at which time Some Minister by previous appointment shall 
deliver Concionem ad Clerum and that the said appointment 
of the Preacher be for the future made at y'^ annual Conven- 
tion, and accordingly we agree to Desire the Rev.'' Mr. Whit- 
tlesey of Wallingford to preach the Convention Sermon at 
the first Convention on Sept' Next and in case of his failure, 
that the Rev. Mr. Hobart of Fairfield be Desired to preach 
on s'' Occasion. 

Voted That the next Meeting of the General Ass" on the 
3''' Tuesday of June next, be at Mr. Eliot's of Killingworth. 

Test Noah Welles Scribe 

Notes. 

Pastor in Willington from 1728 to 1758. 
'' in Hebron from 1735 to 1784. 
" Windham from 1740 to 1793. 

Stamford from 1746 to 1776. 
'• 1*^ Hartford from 1748 to 1772. 



28 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

1752. 

At a Convention of the Gen^^ Association of the Colony of 
Connecticut, at Killingworth in the County of New London 
June 16 : 1752 

Present 

Jared Elliot 
Thomas Ruggles 
John Goodsell 
'. Joseph Fish 
The Rev'^ Mess' William Hart 
Jonathan Todd 

2. Edward Eells 

3. Moses Mather 

The Rev*^ Mr Jared Elliot was chosen Mod', Thomas Rug- 
gles was chosen Scribe. The Convention was opened with 
prayer by the Mod^"". 

Whereas the Gen'^ Association at their last Convention 
did Recommend to the Several particular Associations That 
Some Scheme be proposed by them for the Forming a Gen'^ 
Consociation, And that the Respective Associations should 
Transmit their opinions thereupon to this Convention. 

But the Particular Associations not having so done, voted 
That s'' Affair be Referred to the next Meeting of the Gen^^ 
Association ; And that the Respective Associations who have 
not Signified their opinions thereupon be Earnestly Desired, 
seriously to Deliberate upon the subject; and send their 
Advice thereupon to s*^ meeting. 

Voted that it be Strenuously Recommended to the parti- 
cular Associations that they be Desired to take more effectual 
care with Respect to their members who are to attend upon 
the Gen'^ Association; Both in choosing them and that they 
Punctually and Faithfully Attend upon the Meeting; That 
So the wise and good end of that part of our Constitution may 
be fully Answered. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 29 

And to Render the Convention of the Gen" Association 
more extensively useful It be Recommended; That such 
Questions of Importance as may arise upon Reading or Study 
by particular persons, Or may So Do in the management of 
Public Affairs in the Churches: Be proposed First to the 
particular Associations where they do arise to be answered 
by them : And then that they be transferred by that associa- 
tion, to the Gen" Association with Their opinion or Resolution 
Thereupon ; s'* Questions to be Casuistically and Critically 
Considered & Resolved as a proper method & means to pro- 
mote & Encrease the careful Study of the Holy Scriptures as 
well as Satisfaction of such who Labor under Doubts or Diffi- 
culties therein. S'' Questions & Resolutions when Satis- 
factorily Answered, either by the particular Association to 
which they are first proposed, or by the Gen" Association to 
be entred by the Scribe in the Records of the Gen" 
Association. 

Voted that the next Meeting of the Gen" Association be 
Holden on the Third Tuesday of June next ensuing in Fair- 
field County, At the House of the Rev'^ Mr. Goodsell's, at 
eleven o' Clock before noon — and that in case any thing- 
should intervene that it cannot be conveniently attended at 
s^' place: Then that it meet at the Rev'^ Mr. Buckingham's 
in the West Parish of Fairfield. 

Test Thomas Ruggles Scribe 

A true Record, Test Thomas Ruggles Scribe. 

Notes. 



1. 


Pastor in No. Stonington 


from 1732 to 1781 


2. 


" Cromwell 


from 1738 to 1776 


3. 


" in Darien 


from 1744 to 1806 



30 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

1 753. 

At a Convention of the Gen'* Association of the Colony of 
Connecticut at the west parish of Fairfield in the County of 
Fairfield June 19 : 1753 

Present — 
C Noah Hobart 
Elnathan Whitman 
Ephraim Little 
Samuel Whittelsey 

„, ^ , ,, , Daniel Buckinoham \ 

The Rev/^ Mess.^ < xt ^i t?- ^ 

^ JNathan Birdsey 

Samuel Newell ^ 

Joseph Fowler ^ 

James Beebee \ 

Izrahiah Wetmore ^ 

The Rev/' Mr. Noah Hobart was chosen Moderator — and 
Samuel Whittlesey Scribe. The Convention was opened with 
prayer by the Moderator. 

A former Gen'^ Association having Judged it adviseable 
that there be a Gen" Convention of the ministers of this 
Colony annually at New Haven the day after Commencement, 
and that a Conscio ad Clerum be delivered on that Occasion 
by some minister previously appointed ; but the affair having 
not yet been carried into Execution — This association highly 
approving of the Design do propose and Recommend that 
such a Convention be attended the day after the next Com- 
mencement, and Request tlie Rev'^ Mr. Hobart of Fairfield 
and in case of his failure the Rev.'' Mr. Whitman of Hartford 
to preach the Sermon on tliat Occasion at 10 o'clock of said 
day. 

The Gen'* Association having formerly recommended it to 
the particular associations of this Colony to draw up a 
Scheme for the forming a General Consociation for the receiv- 
ing appeals from particular associations, but several particu- 
lar associations not having sent in any Scheme for this pur- 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 31 

pose to the General Association ; we still recommend it to 
those associations that have not yet Signified their thoughts 
upon this affair, that they would prepare Draughts to be sent 
in to the next Gen" Association, that out of the Several 
Draughts sent in to the Gen" Association they may draw up 
a Scheme for Executing this Design — and it is further 
desired by this association that the Gen" Convention of the 
Ministers which is Expected to meet at New Haven the day 
after the next Commencement would take this affair of a 
Gen" Consociation into Consideration. 

Voted that the next Meeting of the Gen." association be at 
the house of the Rev.^^ Mr. Hall of N. Cheshire on the ^''^ 
Tuesday of June next at 11 o'clock. 

Test. Sam" Whittelsey, Scribe. 

Notes. 

Pastor at Greens' Farms from 1742 to 1766. 

Bristol from 1747 to 1789. 
" East Haddam 1751 to 1771. 

Trumbull 1747 to 1785. 
'' Stratford 1753 to 1780. 

1 754. 

At a Convention of the General Association of the Colony 
of Connecticut at New Cheshire in Wallingford in the 
County of New Haven y^ 18^^ June 1754 

Present 
Samuel Hall 
William Worthington 
Abraham Nott 
Andrew Bartholomew \ 
Benjamin Strong"^. 
Jonathan Ingersol ^ 
Nathan Birdsey 
John Norton ^ 
Samuel Newel 
Cyrus Marsha 
Timothy Pitkin «. 



The Rev^ Mess^ { 



32 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

The Rev"^ Mr. Samuel Hall was chosen Mod"^ — Timothy 
Pitkin Chosen Scribe. The Convention was opened with 
Prayer by the Mod'. 

The General association having frequently recommended 
to the Several Particular Associations in this Colony to 
draw up a Scheme for the forming a General Consociation, 
for the Receiving and hearing appeals from particular Con- 
sociations ; there has been a Scheme or Drauglit sent in for 
this purpose to the general association, from some particular 
associations, but since notwithstanding frequent Recommenda- 
tions Several particular associations have not Sent a Scheme 
according to Desire and for afores'' puYpose, We do still 
earnestly recommend it to the Several particular associations 
that have not yet Sent, that they wo'd Signifie their thots in 
this matter and wo'd prepare and send in their Draught and 
Scheme to the next Gen^^ association, that from these 
Schemes and Draughts there may be Collected and Con- 
certed a Scheme by the General association for the Pro- 
moting and Executing this Design. And the New recom- 
mendation is to these Particular associations viz : to the 
association in Hartford County north and south Districts ; to 
the association in the Countv of Litchfield ; to the association 
in the Eastern Circuit in Fairfield County, the association in 
the County of New London. 

Adjourned till the next morning Seven o'clock June 19 : 
1754. Convened according to adjournment. Voted that the 
next Meeting of the General Association be held at the house 
of the Rev. Mr. Eells in Mid die town on the third tuesday of 
June next at Eleven o'clock A. M. 

Test Timothy Pitkin Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Pastor at Harwinton from 1738 to 1774. 
2. " Stanwioh from 1735 to 1763. 

\ " Ridgefield from 1740 to 1778. 

\ " East Hampton from 1748 to 1778. 

'' Kent from 1741 to 1755. 

" Farmington from 1752 to 1785. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 



33 



1755. 

At a General Association of tlie Colony of Connecticut, at 
the Rev. Mr. Eelles's in tlie North Society in Middletown 
June 17, 1755 

Present — 

Jared Eliot 
Benj" Colton 
John Graham '. 
Will'" Worthington 
Solomon Williams 
Jacob. Eliot 
Noah Hobart 
The ReV. Messrs { Elnathan Whitman 

Natlianiel Eelles \ 
Jonath" Todd 
Edward Eelles 
Jos : Bellamy 
Noah Welles 
James Bebee 
Izrahiah Wetmore 



Mr. Jared Eliot was chosen Moderator and Mr. Welles 
Scribe. 

The Meeting was opened with Prayer by y*^ Moderator. 

This Association apprehending, that various Errors con- 
trary to y*^ Doctrines owned in the Churches of this Colony, 
are spreading and prevailing in the Land ; and that it is 
highly necessary for Ministers to bear a Testimony against 
those preaching Errors ; this Association would earnestly 
recommend it to the particular Associations of this Colony, 
to agree among themselves, frequently to insist upon those 
Doctrines contained in our Confession of Faith, which are 
contrary to the prevailing Erroi'S of the Day : and particularly 
that they would bear a seasonable Testimony against Socin- 
ianism, Arrianism, Arminianism, Pelagianism and Antinom- 
ianism, or any other Errors that may arise among us. 
5 



34 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

And whereas one particular Association of the Colony have 
declined coming into the Proposal of a Gen'^ Consociation 
till the Several Associations have declared their adherance to 
the Confession of Faith owned in our Churches ; we freely 
declare our adherance to the Doctrines contained in our Con- 
fession of Faith and we would recommend it to particular 
Associations strictly to adhere to the Doctrines of our Con- 
fession of Faith. 

The Association adjourn'*^ till 6 o'clo^^ tomorrow Morning. 

June 18 Met according to adjournment. Wheras most of 
the particular Associations in this Colony, have sent in to 
this Bord their Express Approbation of the Motion formerly 
made, that there should be a Concio ad Clerum at New Haven 
the Day after the Public Commencement, annually, and their 
Desire that said Practice should be continued ; This Asso- 
ciation taking the Affair into Consideration, unanimously 
approve of and concur with said Motion and Desire. And 
for the more effectual carrying into Execution the Purpose 
and Design aforesaid, recommend it as our Opinion and 
Advice, that it be referred to y"" particular Associations to 
appoint the Preacher for that Occasion from Time to Time 
for the Future. And forasmuch as there is an appointment 
already made for the next Commencement, after which the 
advice aforesaid is to take Place ; we recommend that the 
future appointments of the several particular associations be 
in Manner and Order following viz : in Fairfield Western 
Association. In the Eastern Association in said County. 
The County of New Haven. The South Association in the 
County of Hartford. The North Association in said County. 
In y^ County of Windham. The Western Association in the 
County of N. London. The Eastern Association in s"^ County. 
The Association in the County of Litchfield. 

This Association apprehending that there is danger of some 
bad Consequences arising from the Common Method of 
Licenceing candidates for the Ministry without any Limita- 
tion as to Time, recommend it to the Particular Associations 
to come into agreement to limit the Licence of Candidates to 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 35 

the Term of four Years, .witli these Exceptions viz : That 
sucli Limitations shall not respect Preachers that have been 
Ordained Ministers; nor Candidates preaching upon Probation 
and under Call to settle with that People to whom they are 
preaching; nor such Candidates as are necessarily hindered 
from attending the next Association after the Expiration of 
four years. 

This Association taking into Consideration the Importance 
of having a Professor of Divinity in Yale College would 
recommend it to the several Ministers in the Colony to 
forward and promote among their People the Subscription 
set on foot for promoting that Design. And in the mean 
Time, in consideration of the great Burden that lies on the 
Rev'^ the President, while he supplies the Place of a Pro- 
fessor ; we recommend it to the Neighboring Ministers to 
assist him by Preaching occasionally in the College Hall. 

Ordered that the next Gen^^ Association of this Colony be 
holden at the House of the Rev'^ Mr. Devotion of Windham, 
on the third Tuesday of June next. 

The Rev. Mess^ Worthington and Todd declar'*^ before the 
Association that whereas they are uncertain as to the Design 
and Business of a Professor of Divinity in this College, and 
have some scruples as to the Regularity of the Meeting of 
the Scholars in the Hall for Public Worship they therefore 
Dissent from the Vote of the Association respecting the 
same, and Desire their Dissent may be recorded. 

After which the Session was closed with the Prayer of the 
Moderator. The above Yoted as the Doings of this Associa- 
tion. Test Noah Welles Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Pastor at West Suffield from 1746 to 1792. 
" Stonino-ton from 1733 to 1786. 



36 



RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



1756. 

At a Meeting of the General Association of tlie Colony of 
Connecticut liolden at the House of the Rev.*^ Mr. Ebenezar 
Devotion in Windham June 15 : 1756 



Present. 

f George Griswold '. 
Solomon Williams 
Elnathan Whitman 
Grindal Rawson \ 
George Beckwith 
Ebenezar Devotion 
The Rev.^' Messrs ■{ Hezekiah Bissell 

Hobart Estabrook \ 
David Judson *. 
Mark Levinworth ^ 
Moses Mather 
Asher Rosseter "^ 
Nathaniel Bartlett'. 

The Rev.'^ Mr. Solomon Williams was chosen Moderator 
and Elnathan Whitman was chosen Scribe. 

The meeting was opened with Prayer by the Moderator. 

This Association apprehending that there is Need of a 
New Impression of the Confession of Faith owned in the 
Churches of this Colony and of the Rules of Discipline estab- 
lished by the laws of this Colony, recommend it to particular 
Associations to promote a Subscription among their People 
for the reprinting s*^ Book as soon as may be, and it is the 
Desire of this Association that what Subscriptions may be 
obtained by the Ministers, belonging to the several Associa- 
tions, might be sent to the Rev. Mr. George Beckwith, and 
that he would enquire of the Printer, what s'^ Book may be 
printed for, and that if a sufficient Number be subscribed for 
that the s^ Mr. Beckwith would agree with some Printer to 
print s"^ Book, and correct the Press, and this Association 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 37 

desire their own Members immediately to set on Foot a Sub- 
scription for reprinting s'* Book. 

Tlie last General Association having reconunended it to 
particular Associations to adhere to the Doctrines contained 
in the Confession of Faith owned in our Churches ; this As- 
sociation would further recommend it, to those particular 
Associations that have not declared their Concurrence with 
s'' Confession of Faith, to declare their Concurrence with it, 
and certify it to the next General Association. 

The following Questions were proposed and Resolved. 

'. Quest. Whether the licensing a Candidate for Preach- 
ing vests him with any proper Office, or makes him a proper 
Officer in the Church ? Resolved in the Negative. 

'\ Quest. Whether such License be anything more than 
an orderly Leave (being given upon examination) to preach 
for a time, and that in order to a Judgment's being further 
made by Ministers and Churches, whether he have those 
Qualifications necessary to be found in a Gospel Minister ? 

Resolved that such License is nothing more than such a 
limited License for this end. 

^. Whether those that give such Leave, or License, have 
not equal Power or Right, to recall the same, upon their 
judging it expedient and necessary so to do ? 

Resolved in the Affirmative. 

This Association recommend it to the particular Associa- 
tions in this Colony to make a Draught of some Emendations 
in our Rules of Ecclesiastical Discipline more especially with 
Respect to the Manner of Voting in Councils of the Consocia- 
tion, which Draughts should be sent to the next General 
Association for them to draAv something out of, that may be 
to the Acceptance of the Churches. 

In consideration of the threatening Aspect of divine Provi- 
dence at this day, particularly in the frequent and amazing 
Earthquakes, and their terrible Effects in various parts of 
the Earth, and Especially the strange, unusual and distress- 
ing War that is prevailing in this Land, as also in Considera- 
tion of the awful Growth and Spread of Yice and Immorality, 



38 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

this Association think it advisable that some time should be 
spent in humble and earnest Prayer and Supplication to God, 
to avert the Token of his Displeasure and save us from Sin 
and from Ruin, and especially that he would protect, defend 
and succeed our Armies in their present Expedition ; and 
accordingly we recommend it to the several Ministers in the 
Colony (before the day of Prayer that may be appointed by 
Authority) to agree with their People to spend some time in 
Prayer every last Thursday in the Month for several Months 
next coming for the End afores'd, unless where Ministers 
and their People have already come into some different agree- 
ment ; at which Times we think it best to be left discretion- 
ary whether to spend the whole Time in Prayer, or that the 
Minister if he be able, give the people a sermon suitable to the 
Occasion. 

Voted that the next General Association shall be at the 
House of the Rev. Mr. Nathaniel Eells in Stonington on the 
Third Tuesday of June next, at Eleven of the clock in the 
Forenoon. 

The above was voted as the doings of this Association. 

Test, Elnathan Whitman, Scribe 
after which tlie Sessions was closed with Prayer. 

Notes. 

'. Geor2:e Griswold Pastor in East Lyme from 1724 to 1761. 

\ Grindal Rawson " Hadlyme from 1745 to 1777. 

\ Hobart Estabrook " Millington from 1745 to 1766. 

*. David Judson " Newtown from 1743 to 1776. 

\ Mark Levin worth " Waterburyfroml740 to 1795. 

'. Asher Rosseter " Preston from 1744 to 1781. 

\ Nathaniel Bartlett " Redding from 1753 to 1810. 



OF THE Ci^LONY OF CONNECTICUT. 



39 



1757. 

At a Geii" Association of tlie Colony of Connecticut at the 
Mr. Nathaniel Eells in the East Society of 



House of tlie Re 



Stonington June 21'^ 1757 



The Rev. 'Mess^^ < 



Present 
^ Jacob Eliot 
Daniel Fuller 
Jonathan Merrick \ 
Nathaniel Eells 
Joseph Fish 
George Beckwith 
Ebenezer Devotion 
Jonathan Todd 
Edward Eells 
Benjamin Throop ". 
John Norton 
Elijah Sill \ 



The Rev. Mr. Jacob Eliot was chosen Moderator & Mess'"^ 
Joseph Fish & Eben"^ Devotion Scribes — 

The meeting being opened with Prayer by the Mod'^ & a 
Letter Drawn by the Rev. Mr. Eben' Devotion to Docf Ben- 
jamin Avery in London, in vindication of our Constitution 
against the exceptions & complaints made by Mr. Bliss Wil- 
loughby (Agent for the Separate's) to our Dissenting Breth- 
ren in England, being read and Maturely considered, this 
Association approved thereof & Voted that s*^ Letter be for- 
warded to Docf^ Avery. 

Voted that the Gen'^ Association shall meet in the County 
of Litchfield next after its session in New London County. 
Voted, that the next General Association shall meet in the 
County of Litchfield at the House of the Rev. Mr. Anthony 
Stoddard at Woodberry on the Third Tuesday of June next 
at 11 o'clock ante meridian ; and in case he refuses, then to 
be at y® Same time, at the House of the Rev. Mr. John Gra- 



40 



RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



ham of the same town. Twas recommended That Every 
Member of the Gen'' Association for the Future come pre-' 
pared to Preach. Test, Joseph Fish, Scribe. 

Notes. 

'. Jonathan Merrick Pastor at North Branford from 1726 

to 1769. 
\ Benjamin Throop '' at Bozrah from 1739 to 1786. 
\ Elijah Sill " Sherman from 1751 to 1779. 



1758. 

[In the manuscript record book we have, between 1757 
and 1759, nearly two full blank pages, and no clue to a reason 
why the meeting appointed for this year was not reported. 
In the records of Litchfield County Association, held in Salis- 
bury May 30th of this year, the Rev. Messrs. Stoddard and 
Graham were appointed delegates to the meeting at Wood- 
bury, the next June, and Mr. Graham was designated as the 
preacher. But no other reference to the meeting of this year 
is found, and like the year 1739, it is without any recorded 
action.] 

1759. 

At a Meeting of the General Association of the Colony of 
Connecticut, at the House of the Rev. Mr. Ebenezer White 
in Danbury June 19 : 1759 

Present 

^John Graham 

Moses Dickinson 

Jedidiah Mills 

Elnathan Whitman 

Daniel Humphrey 
The Rev.^ Mess*. ■{ Ebenezer White 

Eleazar Wheelock 

John Trumble 

Joseph Bellamy 

Jonathan Ingersol 
y^ William Russel 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 41 

The Rev. Mr. Moses Dickinson was chosen Moderator of 
the Association and the Rev. Mr. Elnathan Wliitman was 
chosen Scribe. The Association was opened witli Prayer by 
the Moderator. Adjourned till tomorrow Morning at 7 of 
the Clock. 

June 20"' met according to adjournment. 

Resolved by this Association tliat as the Consociation of 
Churches is one great thing that the Composers of our Plat- 
form had in View, as they expressly declare that wliat affects 
all ought to be managed by all, so the Ecclesiastical Consti- 
tution of this Colony knows of no other Council whatever 
but a Council of the consociated Churches of the District, or 
in some cases a Consociation of a particular District united 
with a neighboring Consociation, called in, according to the 
Direction of the Constitution. 

Resolved that it is most Expedient for the preventing the 
introducing of unsound and unqualified men into the Minis- 
try, and intirely agreeable to our Ecclesiastical Constitution 
that the Council for the Ordination of Ministers (to whose 
province it belongs to examine Candidates for Ordination) 
should consist of the Consociation of the District to which 
the church belongs over which a Pastor is to be Ordained, 
and as this has been practiced for sundry Years by several 
Consociations in this Government so we recommend it to 
Universal Practice. 

Resolved that it is most expedient that Candidates for 
preaching should be Examined by the Association and License 
given them for Preaching should be signed by tlie Moderator 
or Scribe of the Association, and accordingly we recommend 
it to particular Associations to come into this Practice. 

An answer to a Letter from the Rev"^ Mr. Samuel Hall of 
New Cheshire, voted to be sent to him. 

Rev. Sir — We have received your Letter in behalf of our 
aggrieved Brethren at Wallingford, relative to their State, 
which, as you say is indeed very deplorable and in which you 
in their Names desire our Advice — and having considered 
the affair we are of the opinion that as they are at present 
6 



42 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

safe under the Conduct of your Consociation, and not doubt- 
ing our General Assembly will Next October take tlieni under 
their Protection, and provide for their comfortable Settle- 
ment, it may be their wisest Course till then to attend on 
public Worship where they can, patiently submitting to pres- 
ent Inconvenience, in Expectation of so speedy a Relief. 

Voted that the next General Association be at the Rev.'' 
Mr. Jonathan Merrick's in North Brantford on the 3^ Tues- 
day of June next. 

Voted that the Rev. Mr. William Russell of Middleton 
preach the Concio ad Clerum in the College Hall, at the next 
Commencement, and in case he fail, the Rev. Mr. Lockwood 
of Weathersfield preach the Sermon on that Occasion. 

Voted that it be recommended to the particular Associa- 
tions to set forward a Subscription for the reprinting our 
Confession of Faith and Ecclesiastical Constitution in case 
the General Assembly do not Order the reprinting them at 
their Session in October next, and that the Rev. Mr. Williams 
and the Rev. Mr. Wheelock of Lebanon receive the Subscrip- 
tions and agree with the Printer for the Impression. 

Unanimously passed in the Association 

Test Elnathan Whitman Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Jedidiah Mills Pastor in Huntington from 1724 to 1773. 
^ Daniel Humphry " Derby from 1733 to 1783. 

\ Ebenezer White " Danbury from 1736 to 1764. 

\ Eleazar Wheelock " Columbia from 1735 to 1770. 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 



43 



1760. 

At a Meeting of the General Association of the Colony of 
Connecticut convened at the House of the Rev"'. Jonathan 
Merrick in North Brandford June 17*^ : 1760 



The Rev'^. Mess. { 



Present 

f Samuel Hall 
Jonathan Merrick 
Elnathan Whitman 
Edward Eells 
Moses Bartlit 
William Hart 
Abraham Todd' 
Samuel Newel 
Joseph Bellamy 
Moses Mather 
Nathan Strong^ 
Andrew Bartholomew 
Israhiah Wetmore 
Nathanael Bartlit 



The Rev'^ Mr. Samuel Hall was chosen Moderator, and the 
Rev*^* Elnathan Whitman was chosen Scribe. The Associa- 
tion was opened with Prayer by the Moderator. 

The General Association of this Colony having in their 
Sessions the last year, given it as that opinion, that the 
Ecclesiastical Constitution of this Colony know of no 
Ecclesiastical Council for any Purpose whatever, but a 
Council of the Consociation of the District where some 
Ecclesiastical affair is to be transacted — This Association 
do further declare it as their opinion that tlie Council of the 
Consociation of New Haven County had a Right of Jurisdic- 
tion in Matters relative to Mr. Dana's Ordination, and that 
it was an Infringement of our Ecclesiastical Constitution for 
any Number of Ministers to interpose in the Affair of s'^ 



44 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

M' Dana's Ordination in Opposition to the Consociation of 
s^ County. And it is further the opinion of this Association 
that it is the Right of our Consociated Churches to be 
satisfied as to the Orthodoxy and other necessary Qualifica- 
tions for the ministry of any candidate for Ordination in 
their respective Limits before s'^ Candidate is ordained. 

Application having been made to this Association by a 
Committee of the Consociated Church in the first Society of 
Wallingford desiring our Advice in their present Circum- 
stances — This Association advise s^^ Consociated Church to 
Endeavor to obtain as many more of the Neighbouring 
Ministers to preach among them as they can, and as to any 
other Supply of Preaching we advise them to follow the 
Advice and Direction o'f the Association of New Haven 
County. 

Voted that the next General Association be at the House 
of the Rev^'. Elnathan Whitman of Hartford on the third 
Tuesday of June Next at Eleven of the Clock in the forenoon. 
Passed in the General Association 

Test Elnathan Whitman, Scribe. 



Notes. 



Abraham Todd Pastor 2"^ Greenwich 1734-1773. 
Nathan Strong " North Coventrv 1745-1794. 



OF THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 



45 



1761. 

At a Meeting- of the General Association of the Colony of 
Connecticut convened at the House of the Rev/' Elnathan 
Whitman, in Hartford June 16"' 1761 

Present 
^ Jared Eliot Moderator 
Samuel Hall 
Solomon Williams 
Jonathan Merrick 
Elnathan Whitman Scribe 
William Hart 
Ebenezer Devotion 
The Rev/^ Mess.' { Nathaniel Tayler '. 

Daniel Brinsmead 
Israhiah Wet more 
James Lockwood ^ 
Joshua Beldin '. 
Seth Pomroy \ 
Samuel Sherard ^ 
Robert Ross ^ 

The Rev/ Mr. Jared Eliot was chosen Moderator, and the 
Rev.'' Elnathan Whitman was chosen Scribe. The Associa- 
tion was opened with Prayer. 

Voted that an humble Address of Condolence and Con- 
gratulation, be presented to his Majesty in the Name of the 
Ministers of the Consociated Churches of the Colony of 
Connecticut in the following Words viz : 

To the Kings most Excellent Majesty. 

The humble Address of the Ministers of the Consociated 
Churches of the Colony of Connecticut convened in General 
Association at Hartford June 16, 1761 — 

Most gracious Sovereign — 

We your Majesty's most dutiful and loyal Subjects, the 
Ministers of the Consociated Churches of the Colony of 



46 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Connecticut in New England, most humbly beg leave to take 
this opportunity at our first General Convention since your 
Majestys accession to the Throne, to express our deep sense 
of the unspeakable loss your Majesty, your Kingdoms and 
these remote Parts of your Majesty's Dominions have sus- 
tained by the Death of his late Majesty, your royal Grand- 
father, and with the sincerest joy to Congratulate your 
Majesty's happy and peaceful Accestion to the Throne of your 
Ancestors ; the happiness of his late Majesty's wise and 
auspicious government so sensibly felt in every ?art of his 
dominions, and the critical situation of the affairs of Europe, 
made all good men among his subjects, solicitous for the Con- 
tinuance of the important Life of your royal Grandfather, 
and his sudden Removal would have filled his faithful subjects 
with much greater anxiety had not your Majesty's Succession 
to the Crown dispelled their fears, and opened the most 
pleasing Prospect of the Continuance of all the Blessings 
that can be Expected from the Government of the best of 
Kings. 

Your Majesty ascends the Throne amidst the Difficulties 
and Uncertainties of War, we thankfully Adore the good 
Providence of God, which has crowned it with signal Success 
in every part of the World, and especially in America where 
the Designs of your Majesty's Enemies have been utterly 
defeated, important Acquisitions made to your Majesty's Ter- 
ritories (which we humbly hope to see united to the Crown) 
and the British Colonies delivered from those Distresses and 
Devastations to which they were frequently exposed. 

Your Majesty's royal virtues. Regard to Religion and Vir- 
tue, and the true Interests of your Kingdoms, for which you 
are so much the Delight of your People, give us the most 
pleasing hopes of the greatest Security and Happiness under 
your Majesty's Government. 

And as the Churches under our Care have always distin- 
guished themselves by their Loyalty and Obedience, we lium- 
bly recommend them and Our Selves to your Majesty's favor 
and Protection, and we shall make it our constant Care to 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 47 

inculcate upon them Submission to your Majesty's Govern- 
ment and Authority, which we shall endeavour to enforce by 
our own example. And having our heart animated witli 
Zeal for your Majesty's Service, we shall not cease to offer 
up our fervent Supplications to Almighty God, that he would 
multiply Ills Blessings upon your royal Person, that he would 
render your Majesty's Reign long, happy and glorious and 
that lie would maintain the Protestant Succession in your 
Majesty s royal House to the latest Genei'ations. 

Signed in the name and by Order of the Ministers of the 
Consociated Churches of the Colony of Connecticut 

Jared Eliot Moderator 

Voted that the Rev.'' Mr. Jared Eliot be desired to send the 
foregoing Address inclosed in a Letter to the Honorable 
Richard Jackson Esq*", Agent of this Colony desiring him to 
take the earliest opportunity to present it to his Majesty, and 
endeavour to obtain his gracious Acceptance. 

As it has been represented to this Association that the 
Neglect of Family Prayer is a growing Evil among our 
People, we recommend it to particular Associations to take 
the Matter into their serious Consideration and come into 
such Measures respecting it as shall be thought most likely 
to reform this growing Evil. 

Voted, that the next General Association be at the house 
of the Rev'' Mr. Richard Salter in Mansfield on the third 
Tuesday of June next at Eleven of the Clock in the forenoon. 

Passed in the General Association 

Test Elnathan Whitman, Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Nathaniel Taylor Pastor in New Milford from 1748 to 1790. 
\ James Lockwood '' " Wethersfield from 1739 to 1772. 
\ Joshua Beldin '' " Newington from 1747 to 1805. 

\ Seth Pomroy " " Greenfield from 1758 to 1769. 

^ Samuel Sherwood " " Weston from 1757 to 1783. 

^ Robert Ross " " 1^' Bridgeport from 1753 to 1797. 



48 EECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



1 762. 

At a General Association of the Colony of Connecticut at 
Mansfield June 15 : 1762 

Present 

( George Beckwith 
Ebenezar Devotion 
Benjamin Thoope 
Hobart Eastabrook 
Richard Salter '. 
Samuel Newell 
Noah Welles 
Samuel Lockwood ^ 
John Ellis \ 
Judah Champion *. 
Abel Newell '. 
Nathanael Whitaker ^ 



The Rev.'' Mess'\ ^ 



W. Beckwith was chosen Moderator and Mr. Welles Scribe. 

The meeting was opened with prayer by the Moderator. 

The Rev. Mess'"''. Jonathan Merricl^: and Warham Williams 
appeared in Association as delegates from the Association of 
New Haven County, and by order of their Constituents laid 
before us the Copy of a Vote of s'' Association, setting fortli 
that the Rev.'' Mess"" William Hart and John Devotion of 
Saybrook, and the churches of wliich they are Pastors had 
voted to hold communion with Mr. James Dana of Walling- 
ford and those his Adherents ai>:ainst whom a Sentence of 
Non-Communion had been pronounced by a joynt Council of 
the Consociation of New Haven County and the South Con- 
sociation of the County of Hartford, and that the s'' Mr. 
Devotion has in his own and in the Name of the Churcli of 
which he is Pastor, declared publicly in the face of Mr. 
Dana's Congregation that they will hold Communion witli 
them, and as a Testimony thereof preached to, and adminis- 
tered the Sacrament of Baptism amongst them — desiring 
the Opinion and Advice of this Association in the Affair. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 49 

Whereupon the following Case was stated for our Con- 
sideration and Resolution viz : 

The Churches in a Province by explicit Agreement unite 
to hold a mutual Communion and Discipline, and for the 
more convenient carrying on the same to mutual Edification 
agree to divide themselves into four distinct Districts each of 
which have, for instance, ten Churches in them. One of the 
s'^ Churches in one of the Districts falls into Heresy or other 
Scandal. The other nine Churches united in Consociation 
take proper Methods according to the Gospel and agreeable 
to s^ Union to convince and reclaim them, but they continue 
finally obstinate. After due waiting the s"^ nine Churches 
pronounce a sentence of Noncommunion against the s^ 
offending Church. Quere — Whether their thus withdrawing 
Communion from s'' offending Church is to be understood as 
only fur themselves ; or whether the other three Districts are 
not by virtue of their Union so included as to be obliged to 
carry towards the offending and censured Church as the 
other nine churches are obliged to do. 

This Association having considered the Case declare it as 
their Opinion that the other tliree Districts, arc by virtue of 
their Union as aboves'^ obliged to conduct toward the offending 
Church as the other nine Churches are obliged to do. 

And with respect to the conduct of Mess'^'' Hart and 
Devotion with their respective Churches as related above, 
altho' we do not look upon it as a Matter that lies before us 
to give a Determination in the case, yet as the Association 
of New Haven has desired our Opinion and Advice — Tis 
declared as the Opinion of this Association that they ought 
to be called upon by their proper Judges to assign a Reason 
of their Conduct and abide the Judgment that shall be given 
in the Case : We therefore recommend it to the Association 
to which they belong to Enquire into their Conduct and the 
Reasons of it, and according as it shall appear to take the 
Steps directed to in our Constitution to bring the Matter to 
an Issue. 

Yoted that the Convention of the general Association on 



50 



RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



the third Tuesday of June next be at the House of the Rev.^ 
Mr. Beck with in the North Society in Lyme. 

The above Voted as tlie doings of this Association. After 
which the Association concluded with Prayer by the 
Moderator. Test Noah Welles, Scribe. 

Notes. 
\ Richard Salter Pastor in Mansfield from 1744 to 1887. 



Samuel Lock wood 
John Ellis 
Judah Champion 
xibel Newell 
Nathaniel Whittaker ' 



" And over 
" Franklin 
Litchfield 
Goshen 
2"'i Norwich 



1749 to 1791. 
1753 to 1779. 
1753 to 1798. 
1755 to 1781. 
1761 to 1769. 



Rev.*^ Messrs. <J 



1 763. 

At a general Association of the Colony of Connecticut at 
Lyme 3^^ Parish June 21^* 1763 

Present 

^ Grindal Rawson 
Ephraim Little 
George Beckwith 
William Gaylord 
William Hart 
Ebeneza'"" Devotion 
John Trumbal 
Mark Leavenworth 
Edward Dorr 
Joseph Perry '. 

Mr. Little was chosen Moderator and Mr. Devotion Scribe. 
The Meeting was opened with Prayer by the Moderator. 

Yoted that the Rev^ Mr. Hart be requested for a Copy of 
his Sermon preached before this Association, that it may be 
printed if a Sufficient Sum is subscribed for the printing of it. 

Voted that whereas the Western Association of the County 
of New London, have in Pursuance of the advice of the last 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 51 

general Association called Messr^ Hart, and Devotion to Ac- 
count for their holding Communion with Mr. James Dana 
<fec. and sent their Return to this Board. Altho' this Asso- 
ciation don't look upon themselves as the proper Judges to 
determine the Conduct of s'' Association or take it upon our- 
selves to pass any decisive Judgment in s'' Case, Yet inas- 
much as tis desired by the Delegates from s'' Western Asso- 
ciation that s'* Return might be entered on the Records of 
this Board we do order the Scribe to Record the Same as 
follows — 

At a Meeting of the Western Association of N. London 
County at the House of the Rev'' Mr. Stephen Johnson in 
Lyme Oct. 6 : 1762 Present the 

Rev.'' Messr^ Jared Eliott, Moderator, George Beckwith, 
William Hart, Stephen Johnson, John Devotion, Stephen 
Holmes, Scribe, Simeon Stoddard — 

This Association having agreeable to the Advice of the 
General Association at the last Session, inquired into the 
Conduct of the Rev. Messrs William Hart and John Devo- 
tion in giving Communion to Mr. Dana and his Church and 
censured Members, and into the Reasons thereof : find that 
they have given them only that common Ministerial and 
Christian or Church Communion which all our consociated 
Churches have ever given to our neighboring Churches who 
are unconsociated, and that have not and do not pretend a 
Right to interfere in what concerns Special consociation 
Communion, which they fully acknowledge to be wholly in 
the Power of our Consociations ; the matter appearing to us 
in this Light we do not Judge our Brethren guilty of censur- 
able Conduct. Voted Nemine Contradicente. 

A true Copy of Record — 

Test Stephen Holmes, Scribe. 

Voted, That the next Gen. association be at The House of 
the Rev.'' Mr. Benedict in Woodbury first Parish. 

Notes. 
'. Joseph Perry Pastor in So. Windsor from 1755 to 1783. 



52 



RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



The 
Rev.' 

Mess"' 



1 764. 

The General Association of the Colony of Connecticut met 
at Woodbury the third Tuesday of June 1764. 

Present 
^ Jedidiah Mills 
Grrindal Rawson 
William Seward '. 
Benjamin Strong 
John T rumble 
<J Joseph Bellamy 
Ebenezer Booge '\ 
Robert Ross 
John Devotion \ 
Noah Benedict \ 
Benjamin Dunning ^ 

Mr. Mills was chosen Moderator and Mr. Ross Scribe. 
The Meeting was opened witli Prayer by the Moderator. 

As the General Association is designed Especially to con- 
sult Tilings which tend to promote Peace and Union among 
the Churches in this Colony : and as it is manifest the Judg- 
ments of Consociations have in several Instances not been 
satisfactory, and Ministers and Churches have not looked on 
themselves obliged to abide by their Doings, but have acted 
counter to them ; and as no Method has been agreed upon in 
which Ministers and Churches may signify their Dissatisfac- 
tion to the Consociation which they suppose have misjudged 
in any Case in order to get Satisfaction, and so have at one 
Time and another gone into Methods of testifying their 
Disapprobation which have given Offence : To the End there- 
fore that some Method may be agreed upon by common Con- 
sent in which for the future particular Associations or Con- 
sociations or Ministers or Churches may inoffensively signify 
their Dissatisfaction and give Light to, or receive it from 
Consociations whose Judgment is disapproved, this Associa- 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 53 

tion recommends it to particular Associations to take this 
Matter into Consideration and to offer their Sentiments on it 
to tlie next General Association and Endeavour to point out 
such a Method as they look upon to be most regular. 

1. In Conversation on the Point it has been queried — 
Whether it might not be advisable for such aggrieved Mem- 
bers of Churches or Associations to apply to the Association 
of that District, in which they suppose such Case has been 
misjudged with the Reasons of their Uneasiness at their 
Judgment, to desire them to call a Council of that Consocia- 
tion to reconsider s'^ Case. 

2. Whether it may not be advisable upon the refusal of such 
Association, that the aggrieved Members of Churches, and 
Associations, apply to the General Association with their 
Reasons as aforesaid desiring them if they think the Case 
requires it, to recommend it to s''^ Association to call a Coun- 
cil of s*^* District to reconsider the Matter. 

The following questions were bro't to the Association which 
were thus answered viz. 

1. Has a Husband any Right to exercise Authority over 
his Wife in Cases wherein there are different Sentiments 
respecting Religion ? Ans. No. 

2. Whether for the Husband to reflect upon, or treat his 
wife with any Bitterness or Unkindness on Account of differ- 
ent Sentiments and Practice as abovesaid is wicked and 
abusive ? Ans. Yes. 

3. Whether it be lawful and right for the Wife out of Com- 
pliance with her Husband to conform to his Practice contrary 
to her Sentiments where there are religious Differences ? 
Ans. No. 

The next General Association was appointed to be at the 
House of the Rev.*^ , Mr. Dickinson in Norwalk on the tliird 
Tuesday in June next. The Association Voted the above 
and foregoing as their Doings 

Test Robert Ross, Scribe. 



54 



RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



Notes. 

William Seward Pastor in Killiiigworth from 1738 to 1782. 
Ebenezer Booge '' West Avon from 1751 to 1767. 
John Devotion " Westbrook from 1757 to 1802. 
Noali Benedict " V Woodbury from 1760 to 1811 . 
Benjamin Dmining" Marlboro from 1762 to 1773. 



1 765. 

At a Convention of the general Association of the Colony 
of Connecticut at Norwalk in the County of Fairfield on the 
3*^ Tuesday of June AD 1765 

Present 

Moses Dickinson 
George Beck with 
Edward Eelles Moderator 
Daniel Humphrey 
Mark Lavenworth 
Noah Welles 
Edward Dorr 
\ Nathaniel Taylor , 

Israhiah Wetmore 
Nathaniel Bartlett 
Hezekiah Gold 

Stephen Holmes'. • 

Nathaniel Hooker "^ 
Enoch Huntington ^ 
Joseph Huntington''. 



The 
Rev* 

Messieurs 



The Rev"^ Mr. Eells was chosen Moderator and^ Mr. Wet- 
more, Scribe. The Meeting was opened with Prayer offered 
by the Moderator. Discoursed of sundry Matters relative to 
State of the Churches and the Interest of Religion. Ad- 
journed till 7 o'clock tomorrow Morning. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 55 

Met according to adjournment. 

Wliereas it was recommended by the last general Associa- 
tion to the several particular Associations in this Colony to 
prepare and send into the next general Association some ex- 
pedient that might be made use of in order for aggrieved 
Persons to obtain a rehearing of those Cases wherein they 
conceive the Consociation have misjudged and inasmuch as 
the particular Associations have not in general thought fit to 
send in to this Board any Proposals for the above mentioned 
Purposes, this Association is of the Opinion tliat the Rule of 
the Platform is so plain in all such cases and so well under- 
stood and practiced upon by the Churches in general that no 
further Provision is needful to be made. 

The following questions were proposed to this Association 
for their Consideration and Resolution — viz Ques" 

V. Whether y^ present difficult State of the C'^^^^ of this 
Colony respecting the Support and Continuance of a learned 
orthodox Ministry doth require any further Provision to be 
made therefor ? 

Resolved in the Affirmative. 

Q" II Whether it be prudent & advisable for this Associa- 
tion to go into any Measures to procure any further Provision 
for the Purpose afores^ ? 

Resolved in the Affirmative. 

Whereupon this Association do unanimously recommend 
it to the Several particular Associations of this Colony to 
take the Matter into their Serious Consideration & appoint 
some sutable Persons to meet at Hartford in May next at the 
Election to advise with each Other and prosecute such Meth- 
ods as upon the whole may be thought most effectual to 
Remedy the Evil complained of: and in the mean time do 
recommend it to the Members of this Association to take all 
Sutable Opportunity of advising with any of the principal 
Gentlemen in the Government what may be the most proper 
Measures to be pursued in this Case. 

A Motion was made to this Association concerning the 
Decency & Propriety of making the public reading of the 



66 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Sacred Scriptures a Part of the publick Worship in our C*'^^^; 
and as Uniformity in said Practice is greatly to be desired 
this Association do earnestly recommend it to the several 
particular Associations to promote said Practice among the 
several C^^^^ 

The next general Association is appointed to be at the 
House of the Rev'^ Mr. Ruggles in Guilford at 11 o'Clock 
ante Meridian. The above <fe foregoing Voted as the Doings 
of this Association. 

Teste IsRAHiAH Wetmore, Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Stephen Holmes Pastor Centerbrook 1757 to 1773. 
^ Nathaniel Hooker " West Hartford 1757 to 1870. 
\ Enoch Huntington '' V Middletown 1762 to 1809'. 
*. Joseph Huntington " South Coventry 1763 to 1794. 



1 766. 

At a General Association of tlie Ministers in the Colony 
of Connecticut at Guilford the 3' Tuesday in June 1766 at 
the House of the Rev'' Mr. Thomas Ruggles, 

Present 

Thomas Ruggles 
George Beckwith 
Edward Eells 
Joseph Bellamy 
Moses Mather 
Joseph Fowler 
Samuel Sherwood 
Nath^^ Bartlit 
Judah Champion 
Elizer Goodrich 
Noah Wetmore 
Levi Hart 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 57 

The Rev'. The' Ruggies was chosen Mod', Edward Eells 
Scribe. 

The meeting was opened with prayer by the Moderator. 

There was a motion made to this association by the Synod 
of New York and Philadelpliia contained in minutes from 
the Synod Book & a Letter, which are as follows. 

A minute from the Synod Book of New York and Phila- 
delphia of May 29 P. M. anno Salutis 1766 viz : 

x4n Overture was made by some members that we ought 
to endeavour to obtain some Correspondence betwen this 
Synod & the Consociated Churches of our Brethen in Con- 
necticut a Draught of a letter from this Synod to them was 
brought in, read, <fe approved — The Rev'^ Mr. Elihu Spencer 
moderator, the Rev. Mr. John Ewing & Mr. Patrick Alison 
are Desired to present this Letter & Confer with our 
Brethren upon this affair, and provided it shall seem meet to 
our Rev.' Brethren to attend to this our proposal so far as to 
appoint Commissioners from their body to meet with Com- 
missioners from ours, we appoint the Rev. D' Francis. Alison, 
the Rev'' Mess' John Roger, Timothy Jones, William 
Tennent Sen", Elisha Kent, John Smith, John Blair, <fe 
Samuel Buel to meet with them at such time & place as 
the Rev.'' Brethren from Connecticut shall agree. The Rev.'^ 
Mr. John Rogers is appointed to give the Committee notice 
of what the associated Brethren will do Relative to this 
matter. 

A true Copy 

Matthew Wilson Synod Clerk. 

Rev.^ & D-- Brethren — The Synod of New York & Phila- 
delphia at their annual meeting in May 1766 have among 
many other expedients to promote the interests of the 
Redeemer's Kingdom, concluded upon the most mature 
Deliberation, that a general meeting of Delegates both 
from your Chh' & our Presbyteries would answer this 
important purpose — our earnest Desire to accomplish 
so good an end has engaged us to embrace this oppor- 



58 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

tunity of your next general association to propose the matter 
to your Serious Deliberation & to invite you to a general 
Consultation about such things as may have a hopeful 
tendency to promote & defend the Common Cause of 
Religion against the attacks of its various Enemies. As we 
are all Brethren, embarked in the same Interest, perfectly 
agreed in Doctrine & worship, Substantially pursuing the 
same method of Discipline & C'^' Government, & we trust 
all animated with the Same Laudable Zeal to advance the 
Kingdom of our Common Lord, we cannot but hope for your 
ready concurrence with our invitation. Your Good Sense & 
general acquaintance with human nature must necessarily 
lead you to see that a more intimate acquaintance with each 
other's views & Designs will unable us with greater Harmony 
& Consistence & of consequence of greater Success, to 
support the Common Cause in which we are all equally 
engaged. A general agreement in any measures that may 
be adopted to preserve our Religious liberties against all 
Encroachments, and to Bless the benighted Heathen on our 
Borders with the glorious liglit of the Gospel must promise 
desirable Success. 

From the best information we can obtain about the Con- 
stitution of your C'''* we are persuaded that our proposal is 
not impracticable, & it will give us a sensible pleasure to find 
that your Extensive charity & readiness to promote the King- 
dom of Christ have induced you to concert such measures as 
will be best adapted to accomplish so important an end. 

We have appointed the ReV Mr. Elihu Spencer Mr. John 
Ewing & Mr. Patrick Alison to wait upon you at your next 
General Association to Deliver you our Letter & to converse 
with you at large on the Subject of this proposal. 
Signed by order of Synod by 

Elihu Spencer, Mod'". 

The Association's Reply is as follows — Whereas a pro- 
posal has been made to this General Association by the Rev.*^ 
Synod of New York & Philadephia, Representing, that they 
are Strictly United with us in Doctrine & worship as con- 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 59 

tained in tlie Westminster Confession of faith & Catecliisms, 
& that tlie great & general interest of tlie Redeemer's King- 
dom would he liappily promoted, the common cause of Relig- 
ion <fe virtue Strengthened & Defended, whilst mutual benevo- 
lence Sl Brotherly love would l)e cultivated by a General 
union, ngrcement & Correspondence with us, so far & in such 
manner as is consistent & in no Degree interfering with their 
& our Respective internal State & order of government & 
Discipline ; and that it will give them great Satisfaction to 
meet a number of our Ministers at a Suitable time & place 
to converse with them upon a plan & articles of such desired 
Union — 

We therefore, having maturely considered their proposal 
are unanimously agreed to use our influence to promote a 
compliance with it thro' this Colony, and we do in order 
thereto advise the Several Associations to appoint one or 
more of their body to meet Commissioners from the Synod 
beforementioned at New York the first Wednesday in Novem- 
ber next to converse with them upon a plan & articles of such 
desired Union ; to be laid before the Several associations for 
their Concurrence, & to be prepared for the consideration of 
the next general association, <fe then to be completed. 

Voted in the Afifirmative. 

A copy of a Letter wrote to Mr. Rodger of New York — 

Guilford June 17 : 1766 
Rev.^ & Dear S"" 

With gratitude we have Received the friendly proposal 
from your Rev'' Synod, relative to a General Union, and our 
ready Compliance with it comes enclosed, and we shall Re- 
joice if the Design may be happily carried into Execution, & 
answer the good & valuable Ends in view. And may the 
Glorious & Blessed time approach, when love t\: union may 
prevail among all Denominations of Christians thr'o the 
world. We are Rev.^ Sir 

Your affectionate Brethren 

Signed by order of the Association 
Thomas Ruggles Mod''. 



60 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Voted, upon a motion to this Association respecting the 
Charge given in the Ordination of a Minister to his office & 
work, as it is by the authority of all the Elders present & 
acting in the affair, as well as with the joyut Consent of the 
whole Council, it is recommended to the particular associa- 
tions that in this Business of ordination whoever is appointed 
to give the Charge to the person to be ordained should first 
1-ay before the Council the form he intends to use for their 
concurrence & approbation, and that the Charge be given in 
the first person Plural. 

Voted that the next General Association in June be at the 
Rev/^ Mr. Enoch Huntington's in Middletown. 

Voted that this association be adjourned to the first day 
of July next to meet at the Chapel Hall in New Haven, and 
then an address should be prepared to be presented to his 
Majesty King George the 3'^ on account of the Royal favor in 
repealing the Act that was so grievous to the Northern 
Colonies. 

Recorded by Edward Eells Scribe 

July 1*^ 1766 — This Association met at the Chapel Hall 
in New Haven according to 'adjournment and adjourned 
untill tomorrow at 11^*^ in the forenoon and continued by ad- 
journment until the 3^ day, then adjourned to the ^^^ of 
Sept. next to meet at the Chapel Hall in New Haven 

Sept. 11 This Association meet according to adjournment, 
and upon the unanimous motion & Desire of the large Con- 
vention of Ministers present on occasion of the Commence- 
ment the Moderator of this association is requested by 
writing to Desire the Rev. Mr. Roger that the intended in- 
terview of Deligates from the Rev. Synod of New York <fec 
and the several associations of this Colony may be at 
Jamaica on Long Island and not at New York as was at first 
proposed, where it could not be attended without danger of 
the Small Pox 

at this Meeting the Eev^ > Votcd in the affirmative 
this assodltion ^^ ) Rccordcd by Edward Eells, Scribe. 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 



61 



Notes. 

Elizer Goodrich Pastor at Durham from 1756-1797. 
Noah VVetmore " Bethel from 1760-1784. 

Levi Hart " Griswold " 1762-1808. 



1767. 

At a meeting of the General Association of the Colony of 
Connecticut at the House of the Rev'' Enoch Huntington in 
Middletown June 16 : 1767 



Present — 

Thomas Ruggles 
George Beckwith 
William Hart 
James Lockwood 
Edward Dorr 
William Russell 
The Rev."^ I Warham Williams '. 
Mess'^ 1 Samuel Sherwood 
David Ripley '\ 
Elijah Sill 
Joel Bordwell '. 
Enoch Huntington 
Noadiah Warner \ 
Joseph Huntington 

The Rev'"* Thomas Ruggles was chosen Moderator and 
William Russell, Scribe. 

The Association was opened with Prayer. 

This Association being informed by the Delegates that the 
several particular Associations in the Colony have considered 
& approved the Design of a Convention at New Haven next 
September, agreeable to the motion made at the Convention 
in Elizabeth-Town last November, and have appointed Dele- 
gates to attend it ; desire the Moderator to signify the same 



62 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

to the Rev'^ Synod by a Letter to the Rev"*' John Rogers of 
New York. Which is as follows — Rev'"' 8' 

By order of the General Association now regularly con- 
vened at Middletown I am desired to inform you, and by you 
the Rev"*' Synod of New York & Philadelphia, That the 
proposed Convention at New Haven in Sept^"" next has been 
considered and approved by the particular Associations thro 
the Government, and they have appointed Delegates to attend 
the Convention agreed to by the Rev"*' Convention at 
Elizabeth-Town in November last. And to assure you that 
with great Respect we are your Brethren in the Faith & 
Fellowship of our common Lord Jesus Christ. 

Voted that the following Questions be recommended to the 
Consideration of the several Associations in the Colony and 
that they be desired to transmit their Sentiments to the next 
General Association. 

Ist Whether Lay-Ordination is valid ? 

2. Whether Baptism administered by Persons who have 
only Lay-Ordination is valid ? 

Item. _ That the General Association on the third Tuesday 
in June next, be at the House of the Rev.'' Joseph Hunting- 
ton in Coventry. 

Unanimously passed in the Association. 

Test WiLL^ Russell Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Warham Williams Pastor in Northford from 1750-1788. 
^ David Ripley " Abington " 1753-1778. 

\ Joel Bordwell '' Kent " 1758-1811. 

\ Noadiah Warner " V' Danbury " 1765-1768. 



I 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 63 

1768. 

At a general association of the pastors of the consociated 
cliurches in the colony of Connecticut convened by delegation 
at Coventry June 21 : 1768 — present 

Solomon Williams 
George Beck with 
John Trumble 
Noah Welles 
Jonathan Lee '. 
Eliphalet Williams". 
Elijah Mason '. 
Samuel Lockwood 
Elijah Lathrop'. 
Judali Champion 
D"" Nathaniel Whitaker 
Benjamin Trumble '. 
Joseph Huntington 
Hezekiah Ripley \ 

Mr. Williams Avas chosen Moderator and Mr. Welles Scribe. 
The Association opened with prayer by the moderator. 

Voted that the thanks of this body be returned to the Rev.'^ 
D' Chauncy of Boston for the good service he has done to the 
cause of religion, liberty and truth in his judicious answer to 
the appeal for an american episcopate, and in his defence of 
the Newengland churches and colonies against the unjust 
reflections cast upon them in the bishop of Landaff's sermon 
before the society for propagating the gospel in foreign parts : 
and that the moderator present the same to the Doc."" ; and 
cause this resolve to be published in one of the Boston News- 
papers. 

Voted that the thanks of this body be returned to William 
Livingston Esq'", attorney at law in New York, for his late 
vindication of the Newengland churches and planters against 
the injurious reflections and unjust aspersions cast upon them 



64 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

in the bishop of Landaff's late sermon before the society for 
propagating the gospel, contained in his manly and Spirited 
Letter to liis Lordship : and that the scribe be desired to 
transmit this resolve to M' Livingston and cause it to be pub- 
lished in one of the New York Newspapers. 

Voted that M'" Dickinson who is appointed a delegate to 
the general convention at Elizabeth town in October next, be 
desired to preach at the opening of the convention, and in 
case of his failing, M' Williams another of our delegates is 
desired to attend that Service. 

Adjourned to 7 "Clock tomorrow morning. Met according 
to adjournment. 

Voted that the general association in June next be at the 
house of tlie Rev.^ M'. Lord at Norwich, and in case any cir- 
cumstances should render it inexpedient to meet there, then 
that the Rev^ M"" Harts of Preston be the place of meeting. 

The association finding some inconveniences attending the 
present practice of this body in delaying the public lecture 
upon these occasions to the second day of the session, ordered 
that it be declared as our advice, that for the future the 
lecture be attended on the first day of the session. 

Whereas some dispute arose in the last general convention 
concerning the admission of members to vote in s"^ conven- 
tion ; and whereas we understand that the Rev'' the Synod of 
New Yoik and Philadelphia, in order to put an end to that 
dispute for time to come did at their last meeting agree that 
though any gentleman who shall think proper may be freely 
permitted to be present in convention, yet none but the dele- 
gates shall be allowed a vote, this association heartily concur 
with the above limitation ; and moreover give it as our opin- 
ion and advice that none but the delegates shall be admitted 
})ublicly to debate any case before the convention unless par- 
ticularly requested by the body so to do. And it is further 
declared as the opinion and advice of this body, that it is not 
expedient for the future that any of our associations dele- 
gate more than two of their members to the general conven- 
tion. Finally we think it may be advisable that in any future 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 65 

general convention notliing be deemed as an act of the con- 
vention, considered as the voice of the united body but what 
has the major vote of the respective members that sliall be 
present botli from the Synod and from the consociated 
pastors in Connecticut. 

Whereas the Rev'' D'. Whitaker lately returned from 
Great Britain hath represented to this Body the Kind <fe 
Charitable Disposition of tlie good tt Pious People there 
manifested in the generous & charitable contributions to the 
Support of Dr. Wheelock's Indian Academy for the Promo- 
tion of Christianity and Civility among the Savage Indians 
on this Continent ; We are greatly Pleased to find that the 
Hearts of our Dear Brethren on the other Side the Atlantic 
are so united with our's in the truly Evangelical and noble 
Design which the Hearts of the Pious in this Country have 
been <t» still are so intent upon ; and do by this testify our 
grateful^ Sense of their goodness A- liberality and express our 
cordial Desires That the Best of Blessings may rest on all 
the Pious Benefactors, & that Heaven would still prosper the 
important Design. And 'Tis Desired that D"" Wheelock & 
D"" Whitaker would Transmit this to their Friends in Great 
Britain to be communicated in such manner as they think 
proper as a public Testimony of our gratitude. 

The above Voted as the Doings of this association, con- 
cluded with prayer. 

Test Noah Welles Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Jonathan Lee Pastor at Salisbury from 1744 to 1788. 

^ Eliphalet Williams " " East Hartford from 1748 to 
1801. 

\ Elijah Mason Pastor at Chester from 1767 to 1770. 

*. Elijah Lothrop " " Gilead *' 1752 to 1797. 

\ Benjamin Trurable" '' North Haven from 1760 to 1820. 

^ Hezekiah Ripley " '' Greens Farms " 1767 to 1821. 



66 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATIO^N 

1 769. 

At a meeting of the Delegates from the several Associa- 
tions of the Colony of Connecticut at the House of the 
Rev^ M--. Lord of Norwich June 20^^^ 1769 

present — 

Solomon Williams 

Grindal Rawson 

Nathan^ ^ Eells 

Ephraim Little 

Joseph Fish 

George Beckwith 

Ebenez'' Devotion 

Benjamin Throop 

Moses Mather 

War ham Williams 

John Willard '. 

Cotton Mather Smith '. 

William Patten'. 

Simon Waterman \ 

Isaac Lewis'. 

• 
M'" Solomon Williams was chosen Moderator and M"" 
Devotion Scribe. The Association opened with Prayer by 
the Moderator. 

The following unanimously voted viz : 
At a Session of the General Association of the Ministers of 
the Colony of Ccmnecticut, at Norwich June 20 1769. 

This Association taking into serious Consideration the 
dark and threatening Aspect of divine Providence upon our 
Nation and Land in regard to their civil Liberties and public 
Interest : as also the great decay of practical Godliness and 
the Prevalence of Iniquity, think it desirable that a Day be 
set apart for public Fasting and Prayer, to humble ourselves, 
under the righteous Hand of God, and supplicate the Throne 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 67 

of his Grace for the removal of the Calamities we are under 
and to prevent those which seem to be impending. And 
above all that he would pour out his Spirit upon the 
Churclies and people of the Land, revive decaying Religion 
and enlarge the Kingdom of the Redeemer. And accord- 
ingly agree for ourselves, and recommend it to the Brethren 
in tlie Ministry, to our own Churches and the Churches 
throughout the Colony to set apart the last thursday of 
August next for the Purpose aforesaid, earnestly desiring 
both Ministers and people, unanimously to join in the 
Seasonable, solemn and important Duty. And those of our 
Brethren and their Churches, that cannot conveniently 
attend it upon the Day aforesaid, to them we recommend it 
that they attend it on some other Day. 

Voted that the next general Association be at the House 
of the ReV^ M-" Taylor in N. Milford. 

Test Ebenez^ Devotion Scribe 

Notes. 

'. John Willard Pastor in Stafford from 1757 to 1807. 
^. John Cotton Smith Pastor in Sharon from 1755 to 1804. 
^ William Patten Pastor 2'"^ Hartford from 1767 to 1773. 
^ Simon Waterman Pastor 2"^^ Wallingford from 1761 to 
1787. 
^. Isaac Lewis Pastor in Wilton from 1768 to 1786. 



68 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



1 770. 

The General Association met according to Appointment at 
the House of the Rev*^ M=. Taylor in New Milford on the 
third Tuesday of June 1770. 

Present the Revd Messieurs 

Daniel Humphrey 
Robert Silliman \ 
Jonathan Lee 
Joshua Belding 
Nathaniel Taylor 
Samuel Sherwood 
Joseph Strong ^ 
Nathaniel Bartlet 
Robert Ross 
Benajah Roots \ 
John Smaley \ 
Eliphalet Huntington ^ 
David Brunson \ 

M'. Humphrey was chosen Moderator and M' Ross Scribe — 
The Association was opened with Prayer by the Moderator. 
The Association Adjourned till 7 o'clock tomorrow mornings 
Met According to Adjournment — M' Lee prayed at the De- 
sire of the Moderator — the General Association observe with 
much Grief and Concern that various Scandals prevail among 
Sundry of the members of our Churches, and that some ab- 
sent themselves frequently from public Worship and the holy 
Communion — and the great Neglect of Gospel Discipline, 
and therefore earnestly recommend it to the Several Associa- 
tions to take this Important Matter into their Immediate and 
Serious Consideration and prosecute such measures as they 
shall think most expedient to revive brotherly Watchfulness 
& Church Discipline. 

The Rev*^ M'^ Lockwood of Wcthersfield appointed to preach 
the Sermon at the publick Convention at Elizabeth Town, 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 69 

and in case of his failure M' Ross — the next Cleneral Asso- 
ciation is appointed to be at the House of the Rev'' M' Bart- 
let in Reading on the third Tuesday in June next 1771. Tlie 
public Lecture was preached by M'' Lee after which tlie Asso- 
ciation was dismissed. 

Test Robert Ross, Scribe. 

Notes. 

'. Robert Silliman Pastor at New Canaan 1742-1771. 
\ Joseph Strong " Granby 1752-1779. 

'. Benajah Roots " Simsbury 1757-1772. 

\ John Smaley " New Bi-itain 1758-1810. 

\ Eliphalet Huntington " Clinton 1764-1777. 

^ David Brunson " Oxford 1764-1806. 



1771. 

The General Association of the Colony of Connecticut con- 
vened according to Appointment at the House of the Rev."^ 
Nath"' Bartlet in Reading on the 3^ Tuesday of June 1771. 

Present the Rev'^ Mess'"* 

Joseph Bellamy 
Jonathan Ingersol 
Nathan Strong 
Nath" Taylor 
Joseph Strong 
Nathan'' Bartlett 
Robert Ross 
Simon Waterman 
Stephen Hawley \ 
Benj'' Duning'. 

Dr. Bellamy was chosen Moderator and Mr. Waterman 
scribe. The Association was opened with prayer by the 
Moderator. The Rev. Jolm Norton is also now present. 



70 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Whereas the General Association did at their last sessions 
recommend to the several particular Associations to take 
into their serious Consideration the Important Matter of 
Church Discipline, and prosecute such methods as they shall 
think most expedient to promote Brotlierly Watchfulness and 
best answer the ends of Church Discipline — and this Asso- 
ciation finding that no Return from any Association hath 
been made to this Body relative hereto; and being desirous 
of Promoting so good a Design, and observing with grief and 
concern the declining State of our Churches for Want of 
Gospel Discipline — Do recommend to the several Associa- 
tions to take this matter into their serious consideration ; and 
Desire they would send to the next General Association their 
Resolutions or Opinion on the following Questions viz : 

1'*. Whether it is not the indispensible Duty of Christian 
Churches to maintain Gospel Discipline ? 2'^ What can be 
done to restore gospel Discipline in our Churches ? 

The Rev'^ Mess""^ Taylor and Ross according to the appoint- 
ment of the last General Convention laid before the Body 
the importance of punctually attending every General Con- 
vention, particularly the Next at Norwalk — and 'tis hereby 
earnestly recommended to the Delegates now chosen that 
they do attend. The next General Association is appointed 
to be at the House of the Rev'^ M' John Trumble in West- 
bury on the 3'^ Tuesday of June 1772. 

Test Simon Waterman Scribe. 

Notes. 

'. Stephen Hawley Pastor in Bethany from 1763 to 1804. 
'. Benjamin Duning " Marlborough '' 1762 to 1773. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 71 

1772. 

At a general Association of y'' Pastors of y'' Consociated 
Churches in j" Colony of Connecticut convened by Deligation 
at Westbury, June 16 : 1772 present the Rev"* Mess" 

Elnathan Whitman 
John Trumbull 
Moses Marther 
Samuel Newell 
Benj" Woodbridge 
Jonathan Lee 
Samuel Lockwood 
Daniel Brimsmaid \ 
Elijah Sill 
Elijah Lathrop 
John Devotion 

Mr. Whitman was chosen Moderator & M^ Lockwood 
Scribe. The Association was opened with a Sermon by W. 
Woodbridge. 

Voted, that whereas the last general Association recom- 
mended to the several particular Associations Two Questions 
respecting a reviving of Discipline in our Churches for their 
opinions, & but Three of them have returned their answers, 
the other are desired to Send in their answer to y^ next 
general Association, and y^ Deligates from those Six are 
desired to Inform their respective Associations of this 
Resolve. 

Voted Instructions to the Deligates of the Several Asso- 
ciations appointed to attend the next general Convention to 
meet at Elizabeth Town, the last Wednesday but one in 
Sep"" 1772 — Rev'' Brethren, Whereas some of the Clergy of 
the Church of England have showed great Asseduity in 
Soliciting an American Episcopate, and Petitions (as we are 
informed) have been perfered to his Majesty the archbishop 
of Canterbury &c by Mess."^^ Cooper & Horox requesting y^ 



72 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

same — we Inform you that 'tis the advice of this Association 
that you heartily concur with the Southern Gentlemen in 
counteracting any Motions that have or shall be made for s^ 
Episcopate in such manner as shall be most Convenient in 
said Convention. 

Voted That the Rev/ Sa" Clark who is appointed Deligate 
to the next general Convention at Elizabethtown be desired 
to open s"* Convention with a Sermon, & in case of his failing 
M"" Cotton M. Smith another of our Deligates is Desired to 
perform that service. 

In reference to a number of Questions Sent to this Board 
from y^ Rev' Nath' Sherman of Mount Carmel for their 
Resolution. 

Voted 1*^ That a Minister whose Usefulness is beyond all 
doubt at an end with his People ought to be willing to resign 
and may be Warrantably Dismissed without his consent 
although guilty of neither Herise nor Scandal & yet great 
care ought to be taken that Ministers are not Injured in their 
Temporal Interests. 

Voted 2'^ If any Minister tliinks himself Injured in 
Temporalities by a too Sudden Dismission thro' the unreason- 
able Clamour of his People, & the People refuse to come into 
any reasonable Method to do him Justice as to his Temporal 
Interest, he can have no Redress unless at y*" Civil Board. 

3'^' If any injury is done to any Minister's Character in 
the Result of the Consociation that Dismisses him, y"^ only 
Method for Redress in y^ Case is to Desire a Rehearing at y^ 
Same Board. 

4'^ No Cause can be removed from a Consociation after 
Judgment is given to another Board to be reheard and 
redetermined. Unless by agreement of y'^ Parties concerned, 
and Concurrence of the Consociation. 

Voted, To desire the Rev''' Noah Wells, Standing Register 
of y® general Convention annually to lay before this Board 
the Doings of s'' Convention. 

Voted That the next general Association be at the House 
of the Rev.'' Sa" Newell in New Cambridge. The above 



OF THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 



73 



Voted as the Doings of this Association. Concluded with 

Prayer. 

Test Sa^"^ Lockwood, Scribe. 

Notes. 
'. Daniel Brinsmaid Pastor in Washington from 1749 to 1785. 



1773. 

At a Meeting of the general Association of the Colony of 
Connecticut at the House of the Rev."' Sam" Newell in *New 
Cambridge June 15*^^ 1773 — 

Present 

f George Beck with 
Hez*" Bissel 

W'^ Seward 
Jonathan Ingersol 
Sam" Newell 
Nathan Strong 
Elijah Sill 
Daniel Welch \ 
Robert Ross 
Benj" Boardman ^ 
Ammi R. Robbins ^ 
Andrew Stores *. 
W'" Drummond ' 
Cyprian Strong ^ 
Sam" J«. IS: 
John Foot 



The 

Rev.^ 

Mess.' 



< 



The Rev."^ George Beckwith was chosen Moderator — Benj'' 
Boardman Scribe. The Council was opened with Prayer 
offered by the Moderator. The Rev*^ Hez'' Bissel preached a 
Sermon. Adjourned till 7 oclock to Morrow Morning. 

June 16"' 7 o'Clock A. M. Convened according to adjourn- 
ment, entered upon Business and Papers were read on the 

10 



74 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Subject of Clih Discipline, sent in from several of the par- 
ticular associations viz : one from the Eastern District of 
Fairfield County : — Do. from the South District of Hartford 
County — Do. from Windham County — this remark toward 
y^ close. Do. from New London County — Do. from Litch- 
field County — Do. from New Haven County — Do. from 
Hartford North District — and after having taken into con- 
sideration y^ above said Papers touching Chli Discipline, 

Voted That the Rev^^ Messieurs Edward Eells, Elizur 
Goodrich, Benj" Boardman, Enoch Huntington and Cyprian 
Strong be a Com^^*^ to collect some general Things into form 
from said Papers or Exhibits and prepare the same to be 
laid in before the next Gen' Association for their further 
Consideration. 

Voted also that the next General Association be at the 
House of the Rev"^* Solomon Williams at Lebanon in Wind- 
ham County on the third Tuesday of June next — and in 
case anything should intervene rendering it inconvenient to 
Meet at the s*^ Mr. William'^ then to meet at the House of 
the Rev.^ Daniel Welch of Mansfield at the afforesaid Time 
& in said County. 

The above voted as the Doings of this Association & then 
concluded with Prayer. 

Attested p'r Benj° Boardman, Scribe 

Notes. * Now Bristol. 

\ Daniel W^elch Pastor in North Mansfield — 1752 to 1782. 
^ Benjamin Boardman Pastor in Middle Haddam — 1762 
to 1783. 

'. AmmiR. Robbins Pastor in Norfolk — 1761 to 1813. 
\ Andrew Stores " Plymouth — 1765 to 1785. 

^ William Drummond " New Canaan —1772 to 1777. 

^ Cyprian Strong '' 1^^ Portland — 1767 to 1811. 

\ Samuel J. Mills " Torringford — 1769 to 1822. 

\ John Foot " Cheshire — 1767 to 1813. 



I 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 75 

1774. 

At a General Association of the Pastors of the Consociated 

churclies in the Colony of Connecticut convened by Delegates 

at the House of the Rev'^ Daniel Welch in Mansfield June 
21>t 1774 _ 

Present — 

Rev'^. Mess". Benjamin Throop 
James Cogswell 
Stephen Johnson \ 
Warham Williams 
Samuel Lockwood 
Elijali Lathrop 
Daniel Welch 
John Ellis 
Simon Waterman 
William Drummond 
John Bliss 
Theodore Hinsdale '. 
Hezekiah Ripley 
Ebenezer Baldwin ^ 

The ReV^ Mr. Throop was chosen Moderator & M'. Bald- 
win, Scribe. 

The Meeting was opened with prayer by the Moderator. 
The association then proceeded to business. The Report of 
a Committee appointed at the last association to draw up 
something upon Church Discipline proper to be recommended 
by tliis association was read. Likewise some Tho'ts upon 
the Subject of Discipline were exhibited from the western 
association of Fairfield Coilnty. 

The Rev''. Mess""* Waterman, Drummond, & Baldwin were 
appointed a Committee to draw a Draft of a Letter of Condo- 
lence to the Ministers of Boston under the present melancholy 
circumstances of that Town. 

The Rev*'. Mess""' Cogswell, Johnson & Lockwood were 
appointed a Committee to draw up something upon the Sub- 



76 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

ject of Church Discipline proper to be recommended to the 
Several Churches of this Colony. 

The Rev.^ Samuel Lockwood is appointed to preach the 
Sermon at the opening of the next Convention at Elizabeth 
Town, & in case of his Failure the Rev'* Mr. Baldwin is 
appointed. 

Adjourned till tomorrow morning 7 oclock, June 22. Met 
according to adjournment. 

This association taking into Consideration the State of y® 
Settlements now forming in the Wilderness to the Westward 
& North-westward of us, who are mostly destitute of a 
preached Gospel, many of which are of our Brethren Emi- 
grants from this Colony, think it advisable that an attempt 
should be made to send missionaries among them, and for 
obtaining a Support for such Missionaries would recommend 
it to the several Ministers in this Colony to promote a Sub- 
scription among their people for this purpose. Upon which 
it was Voted that the preceding conclusion together with the 
form of a Subscription be printed & sent to the several Minis- 
ters in this Colony, a Lecture was then attended, the Rev*^ 
M' Cogswell preached from Phil. 2: 1, 2 — 

The doings of the last General Convention were read 
before this association & were well accepted. The Rev.'^ 
Mess""^ Cogswell & Johnson were appointed to compleat the 
Draft of a Letter to the Ministers of Boston. 

The Committee appointed to draw up a Draft upon Church 
Discipline made their Report which was ordered to lye on 
File. 

The Rev.d Mess''^ Noah Wells, Sam^^' Lockwood & Elijah 
Lathrop were appointed a Committee to draw up a Draft upon 
Church Government to be presented to this Body at their 
adjourned sessions in Sept"" next. The Committee appointed 
prepared a Draft of a Letter to the Ministers of Boston 
which after Correction was accepted & is as follows — 

Rev.d & dear Sirs, We your brethren of the Colony of 
Connecticut met by Delegation from the several Counties in 
general association, at our annual meeting, cannot but feel 



OF THK COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 77 

deeply impressed with the present melancholy threatened 
Situation of America in general & the distressed state of the 
Town of Boston in ])articular snffei'ing the Severe resentment 
of the British Parliament by which the Subsistence of Thou- 
sands is taken away. We readily embrace this opportunity, 
to manifest our hearty Sympathy with you in your present 
Distresses. We consider you as suffering in the common 
cause of America; in the cause of civil Liberty, which, if 
taken away, we fear would involve the ruin of Religious 
Liberty also. Gladly would we contribute everything in our 
Power for your encouragement and Relief; however our Sit- 
uation enables us to do little more than to express our sin- 
cere, affectionate Concern, & with fervent addresses to com- 
mend your Cause, & the Cause of America — the Cause of 
Liberty & above all of Religion to the Father of Mercies, 
who can easily afford effectual Relief; who hath the Hearts 
of all at his Disposal & can turn them as he pleases. We 
feel deeply sensible what a heavy Load must lie upon the 
minds of tlie Ministers of Boston — enough to sink their 
Spirits unless armed with vigor. Christian Fortitude & Reso- 
lution. In hopes it may afford you some Consolation we 
assure you of our sincere Condolence and unremitted prayers 
in your Behalf; and that we shall in eYevy way suitable to 
our Character and Station use our Influence with the good 
People of this Colony to concur in every proper measure cal- 
culated to afford Relief to America in general, & the dis- 
tressed Town of Boston in Particular. We pray that the 
Ministers of Boston may be inspired by the great Head of 
the Church with Wisdom sufificient for their Direction in 
such a critical Day as the present. And we cannot but hope 
the united Prayers of America may obtain that audience in 
Heaven which will ensure Salvation to us; and That God 
would give them & their People Firmness, Unanimity, Patience, 
Prudence & every Virtue which they need to support them 
under their heavy trials, & enable them to stand firm in the 
glorious Cause of Liberty ; express such a Temper & exhibit 
such an Example as shall be well pleasing to God, & rec- 



78 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

ommend them to the Compassion & Favor of their fellow 
men. We earnestly pray that God would humble us all 
under a deep sense of our numerous Transgressions & Crim- 
inal Declensions ; show us the absolute necessity of Repent- 
ance & Reformation, humble us under his mighty hand & 
pour out a Spirit of Fervent Supplication on you, on us, & all 
his people in this Land." 

Voted that there be a standing Register appointed to keep 
the Records of this association & the Rev^ M"" Trumbull of 
North Haven is appointed the present Register. The next 
general association in June 1775 is appointed to be at the 
house of the Rev^ M"" Throop at New Concord in Norwich. 

The Southern association of Hartford County having neg- 
lected to appoint one to preach the Conscio ad Clerum, the 
day following the next Commencement, this association do 
therefore appoint the Rev<^ Edward Eells of Middletown to 
preach the Sermon at that Time. This association is 
adjourned to the day after the next Commencement to meet 
at Newhaven in the College Chapel at 8 *" Clock in the 
Morning. The session was concluded with prayer by the 
Moderator. 

Test Ebenezer Baldwin, Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Stephen Johnson Pastor at Old Lyme from 1746 to 1786. 
■^ Theodore Hinsdale " North Windsor 1766 to 1795. 

\ Ebenezer Baldwin " l^t Danbury 1770 to 1776. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 79 

1 774 Continued. 

The general association of the Pastors of the Consociated 
Churches of the Colony of Connecticut convened by Deleg'a- 
tion at Newhaven Sept. 15^"' 1774 according to adjournment- — 

Present 
Rev.'' Mess'^ Benjamin Throop 
Thomas Can field '. 
Samuel Lockwood 
Elijah Lath 10 p 
Nathaniel Bartlett 
John Ellis 

Simon Waterman ♦-v 

John Bliss 
Theodore Hinsdale 
Hezekiah Ripley 
Ebenezar Baldwin 
Jehu Miner ^ 

The Rev"^ M' Wells read before this Body a Draught for 
the Improvement of Discipline in our Churches, according to 
appointment from this Body. 

The association then entered upon further Consideration 
of the Subject of sending Missionaries to the Scattered Set- 
tlements in the Wilderness to the Northwestward, and came 
into the following Conclusions. 

V^ The General Association find so much encouragement 
relative to the Support of Missionaries to be sent into the 
back Settlements, that they think it advisable to appoint 2 
Missionaries to go upon this business next Spring. 

2. That one person be appointed in each County to receive 
the Subscriptions or Donations made, or that shall be here- 
after made for this purpose in s*^ County. They to give their 
Receipt to the Persons from whom they Receive them. 

3. That a Committee of three Persons be appointed to re- 
ceive these Donations from the Receivers in the several Coun- 



80 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

ties & to give their Receipts therefor — This Committee to 
appoint to the Missionaries their Support — to pay such sums 
to them, as they may see proper to appoint from the Dona- 
tions received by them. They to direct the Missionaries in 
any thing they shall Judge Necessary where not particularly 
directed by the general association. They also may appoint 
other Missionaries in case of the failure of any appointed by 
this Body. They to account to the General Association 
yearly, for the Disposal of the Monies rec^ by them — to lay 
before this Body the proceedings of the Missionaries — their 
success — tlie State of the Place wherein they may discharge 
their Missions &c. This Committee to continue during the 
Pleasure of the association. 

The Rev.'' M"" Ripley is appointed to receive the Donations 
in the County of Fairfield, the Rev*^ M' Waterman for the 
County of Newhaven, the Rev'' M' Day for the County of 
Litchfield, the Rev.*^ M' Hinsdale for the County of Hartford, 
the Rev.'' M' Cogswell for the County of Windham, & tlie 
Rev" M.' Ellis for the County New London. 

The ReV M' Williams of Northford, the Rev.'' M.' Good- 
rich of Durham, & the Rev'' M' Trumbull of North Haven 
are appointed a Committee for the purposes specified in the 
3'V Article above. 

The Rev" M' Taylor of New Milford, the Rev". M-^ Water- 
man of Wallingford & the Rev" M' Bliss of Ellington are 
appointed Missionaries, any two of them to go upon the 
Mission as they shall agree. These Missionaries are directed 
to travel thro' the ^Settlements in the Wilderness to the North- 
westward of this Colony ; but not to proceed further North- 
ward than the northern boundary of the Province of New 
York : where they shall judge their Services may be most 
likely to be beneficial ; excepting so far as they shall be 
more particularly instructed by the Committee. — They are 
directed to perform all parts of the Ministerial office as 
Providence shall open a Door. They are directed to set out 
upon this Mission sometime next Spring ; to spend 5 or 6 
months in their Mission if the Committee are able to provide 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 81 

for their support so long — to keep an exact Journal of their 
Proceedings, ct give as accurate an account as Possible of 
the State of the several Places they pass thro' ; that the 
General Association may be better able to determine where 
to send their Missionaries in coming Time. 

Voted til at the following Advertisement be published in 
the several News Papers in this Colony — 

The General Association of the Colony of Connecticut 
convened by adjournment at New Haven Sept 15^'' 177^1: 
have appointed the follov\^ing Gentlemen to Receive the Sub- 
scriptions made or that may hereafter be made for the 
purpose of Supporting Missionaries to be sent to the Settle- 
ments in the Wilderness to the Northwestward of this 
Colony, viz : the Rev^ Mr. Ripley for the County of Fairfield 
&G — to be by them transmitted to the Rev'^ Messi's Warham 
Williams, Elizur Goodrich, <t Benjamin Trumbull, who are 
appointed a Committee for carrying this Purpose into execu- 
tion. And the several Ministers in the Colony who have 
rec'' or may hereafter Receive Subscriptions for this Purpose 
are desired to send whatever Donations they shall collect to 
the Gentlemen above mentioned as receivers in the Several 
Colinties, taking their receipts for the Money delivered. 

Test Ebenezar Baldwin, Scribe. 

The association then resumed the Consideration of some 
proper Methods for the Revival of Discipline in our 
Churches. A Draught was then read before this Body for 
the improvement of Discipline by the Rev^^ M"" Lockwood 
according to appointment. The following thoughts upon 
that subject are approved by this Body & recommended to 
the practice of the Churches. 

This Association taking into consideration the great 
Declension of Religion & the disorderly Walk of many of its 
Professors & neglect of Duty in others under the Bonds of 
the Covenant, which is owing in a great Measure we appre- 
hend to the want of Discipline in the Church of Christ ; 
which is to the Dishonor of Christ the great Lawgiver 
11 



82 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

to his Church & to the reproach <fe wouDding of his Visible 
Disciples who are under special obligations to walk with 
Clirist in all his Statutes & ordinances & to do whatsoever 
he commands them ; nor can the Church in this depraved 
State, wherein it is impossible but that offences will come, 
long maintain Purity & good order where the Discipline of 
Christ's house is neglected ; but the glory of the Church is 
tlien departed : 'tis no longer beautiful as Tirzah, comely as 
Jerusalem & terrible as an army with Banners ; nor can it 
properly be said Christ rules that house where his own Laws 
are neglected. Altho many have desired & some attempted 
to recover discipline so manifestly Lost in the Churches ; 
but with little success ; which we fear will yet be the case 
unless it pleases God of his great mercy to pour out the 
Divine Spirit upon our Chu relies to the Revival of Religion 
in the power cV: purity of it — however Duty is ours & the 
Event is God's ; we would therefore Reccommend it 

1. As an Licumbent Duty on Ministers both in public & 
private, to take pains with the professed Disciples of Jesus, 
to convince them of the nature & end of Discipline & the 
necessity of maintaining it in the Church of Christ in its 
militant State, without which it cannot subsist in Character. 
They should be made sensible of the advantages of a Christian 
Watch over each other, whereby Every Member hath the 
friendly assistance of the whole community with which they 
are Specially connected, to prevent their Wandering, or 
reclaim them when they have gone astray. 

2. We judge it expedient in this, day of Declension & 
Dissoluteness for Ministers to be frequent & pressing in their 
addresses to Parents & heads of Families, especially such as 
are under the Bonds of the Covenant that the eyes of the 
Lord are upon them & God requires that they perforin their 
Yows, not only for themselves but also for those committed 
to their care, to train them up in the Nurture & admonition 
of the Lord by Listructions, Councils, Reproofs & Discipline 
as needed <fec., the neglect of which we apprehend is one 
cause of much Disorder both in Church & State. 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 83 

3. To effect the good End proposed, we recommend it to 
the Churches, that all the Children of the Covenant be con- 
sidered & Treated as subjects of Discipline & objects of their 
tender care & christian Inspection ; to see that such Lambs 
of the Flock liave the advantage of Christian Instructions & 
Government in their Early Days ; & as such come forward 
in years & understanding, if they are guilty of Scandal or 
Neglect to take upon themselves the Bonds of the Covenant 
by their own act ; that the Church use proper methods to 
reclaim them & bring them to a sense of their Duty by 
admonitions both private & public if need be ; & in case 
these methods prove ineffectual to reclaim them after all due 
Patience hath been used ; it is the Duty of the Church 
publicly to discharge themselves of their Watch & Care over 
them. 

4. Because of the so great neglect of Discipline in Clirist's 
house it appears to us men become fearless of transgressing, 
& that Delinquents & Scandalous Persons are often Neglected 
to tlieir Damage, when they need the wholesome Discipline 
the great head • of the Church has Instituted ; That guilt 
often lies upon the Church by suffering Sin upon a Brother, 
merely because no one takes upon him the friendly part of 
a Complainant ; for what equally concerns all is too often 
neglected by all. 

To remedy this Disorder we propose, that each Church 
chuse a small number of the Brethren as a Committee of 
Inspection, Inquiry & Information, to act with or by direction 
of the Pastor, who upon hearing anything of their Members, 
which they apprehend to be Matter of Scandal & Church 
Censure are to consider themselves as under obligations to 
make Inquiry, examine Evidence &c, and endeavor by private 
measures to heal the Difficulty, reclaim offenders <fe restore 
peace & good order to the Church ; But it' they fail hereof & 
tind it necessary for the Honor of God, the peace & Edifica- 
tion of the Church & the good of offenders, then one of the 
said Committee to exhibit a formal, written Complaint to 
the Church, (t support the Charge with what Light & Evidence 



84 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

he can ; that the Church may proceed against such offenders 
according to the Laws of Christ's Kingdom & be lead to a 
righteous Judgment. Yet this is not intended to cut off any 
brother from his Right of exhibiting a Charge in his own 
Name against an offender if he desires it, & the matter of 
offence renders a Charge Necessary. 

The foregoing Particulars are i-ecommended by this asso- 
ciation to the practice of each of the several Pastors & 
Churches in this Colony so far as can be done with Peace & 
Unanimity. 

The above Voted as the Doings of this association. Con- 
cluded with Prayer. 

Test Ebenezer Baldwin, Scribe. 

Notes. 

'. Thomas Canfield Pastor in Roxbury from 1744 to 1795. 
\ John Miner Pastor in South Britain from 1768 to 1790. 



1775. 

At a General Association of the Pastors of the consociated 
Churches of the Colony of Connecticut, convened by Deliga- 
tion, at the House of the Rev^ Benjamin Throop in Norwich 
June 20^^ A D 1775 

Present 

^Elnathan Whitman 
Ephraim Little 
Benjamin Throop 
Stephen White 
Eliphalet Williams 
Elijah Sill 
Elizur Goodrich 
Simon Waterman 
Eliphalet Huntington 
Hezekiah Ripley and 
Jonathan Murdock '. 



The Rev<^ Messieurs <J 



The Rev.'^ Elnathan Whitman was chosen Moderator and 
M"" Goodrich Scribe. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 85 

Tlie General Association was opened with a Sermon from 
Exodus JIl Clia[). 2 Verse, by the Rev.'' Eliphalet Huntington. 

M^. Goodrich reported the State of Matters relative to the 
sending of Missionaries to tlie Northwestward, as was ])ro- 
posed the last General Association, and thereon M"" Throop 
A: M"" Williams were joined with liim as a Committee to draw 
up and bring in a Draught of what may be pro] er for the 
General Association to do further in prosecuting the Design. 

Adjourned 'till to morrow morning 7 o'Clock. June 21.^^ 
7 o'clock A. M. met according to adjournment. The Com- 
mittee appointed to prepare a Draught relative to the Affair 
of Missionaries brougt in one which was read, approved and 
is as follows — "The General Association being of Opinion 
that great and good Ends, through the Blessing of God, may 
be answered by sending Missionaries into the back Settle- 
ments, as was proposed the last General Association, and 
being unwilling that the Design should fail, tho' from the 
Report made by M^. Goodrich it appears not practicable to 
be immediately executed, do continue the same Gentlemen 
who were appointed by the last General Association, as a 
Committee to carry the Plan into the Execution, and do 
recommend to tlie Receivers in the several Counties to col- 
lect the Monies which have been subscribed and transmit the 
same to the Committee with all convenient speed that they 
may be enabled to act in the Affair as providence shall open 
a Door, and if possible carry it in some Measure unto Execu- 
tion this Year ; otherwise they are directed to lay the matter 
before the next General Association. 

The General Association are apprehensive that the per- 
plexed & melancholly State of public Affairs has been a Dis- 
couragement to this Design, & a Reason why the Collec- 
tions have not been brought in, as was expected ; but how- 
ever dark present Appearances are, they cannot but hope 
God will yet give Opportunity of executing the Scheme pro- 
posed, to his own Glory, and the Spread and Increase of the 
Redeemer's Kingdom. 

At present affairs are in such a Situation that the General 



86 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Association can give no particular Directions to the Commit- 
tee for the Management of the Business, but would have 
them use their best Discretion, having a regard to what was 
done by the former General Association, as nearly as Cir- 
cumstances will permit : And though in the opinion of the 
General Association it would be best That both Missionaries 
should be ordained Ministers, yet if it be found impracticable 
to send two such, the Committee arc at Liberty to send some 
suitable Candidate, as one, under the Direction of the other 
who shall be ordained. 

We recommend the Matter to the serious consideration of 
Ministers and all good Christians, and hope they will encour- 
age it and assist all concerned in the Execution of it ; and if 
this be done we hope some attempt may be made before 
Winter. 

The General Association taking into serious Consideration 
the destressing and melanchoUy State of public affairs in the 
British American Colonies, and the Dangers they are now 
threatened with from the oppressive Measures of the British 
Court are sensible of the loud calls of God in his Providence, 
that humbling ourselves under his righteous Hand, we turn 
unto him by unfeigned Repentance and Amendment, and we 
are thankful that God has put it into the Plearts of our 
*Rulers so frequently to call upon us and our People to those 
Duties, that laying aside all Levity and extravagance and un- 
due Diversions, we should be excited to earnest Prayer and 
Supplication, and meet with our People for that Purpose as 
frequently as Convenience will admit. We trust our Rulers 
will still encourage this good Work and strengthen the 
Hands of all the Ministers in it. We also rejoice that in so 
many of our Churches and Congregations there appears a 
Disposition of attending on such Seasons and wish it may 
become General and Universal : We look upon it in particu- 
lar our Duty to stir up ourselves and all our Brethren in the 
Ministry to be forward in leading our People in this Day of 
Trouble to be calling on God, and to have special seasons of 
Prayer and that the whole of our Congregations be urged to 



\ 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICDT. 87 

attend them ; This is certainly our Duty and wliat we are 
particularly diiected to in the Word of God, that we answer 
the Messages of Heaven in Divine Providence and become an 
humble, penitent and pardened People, prepared for the 
Divine Mercy and Salvation. And as we are the Covenant 
people of God, and have enjoyed the Special Privileges of 
the Gospel, we look upon it that God in his Providence calls 
upon us to consider our Covenant obligations and that it is 
the indispensable Duty of Ministers to impress the minds of 
all their People with the Duty of owning the Covenant God 
of our Fathers ; that those who have come under explicit and 
personal Engagements humbling themselves for all Breaches 
of their Yows, should be quickened to walk with God in all 
his Commandments and Ordinances, and that others should 
be reminded of their awful Neglects and urged to remember 
and own the Obligations they are laid under by God's Cove- 
nant, and improve the Privileges of it, and if any Churches 
or Congregations shall see fit and convenient publicly and 
as a body to renew their Covenant with God we should 
approve it ; but must leave the Matter to the Prudence 
of Ministers and Churches to determine particularly for 
Themselves ; At the same Time we would solemnly Charge 
ourselves, our Brethren in the Ministry and our People to be 
earnest in seeking and turning to God, and that bringing 
forth such Fruits as he requires we may have tokens for 
good, and still trust in his fatherly Kindness, that he will 
appear for this Land, scatter the dreadful Cloud that is over 
it, secure k perpetuate all its Rights and Privileges and 
cause the Churches here planted to flourish so long as the 
Sun and Moon shall endure. 

Voted that the next Meeting of the General Association 
ou the third Tuesday of June next be at the House of the 
Reverend Hezekiah Gould in Cornwall, and provided it 
should be inconvenient for Mf" Gould to entertain them that 
the Association of Litchfield County appoint a Place and 
inform the other Associations. 

A true Record of the Doings of the General Association — 

Test Elizur Goodrich, Scribe. 



88 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

A true entrj of the Record of the Doings of the General 

Association. 

Test Benjamin Trumbull 

Register of the General Association. 

Notes. 
'. Jonathan Murdock Pastor 2d Greenwich from 1774 to 1785. 



1776. 

At a general Association of the Pastors of the Consociated 
Churches of the Colony of Connecticut, convened by deliga- 
tion at Cornwall in Connecticut June 18: 1776 — 

Upon Motion made, it was voted that this Association will 
from Time to Time order to be printed and dispersed to the 
several Consociated Churclies of this Colony whatever shall 
be transacted by tliem of. general Concern to the Churches; 
and tliat when any thing is not published in this Manner, it 
is to be understood tliat nothing material of tliis Kind was 
transacted by the Association. 

June 19*'' Voted That the preceding vote, and the Address 
of this Association to the Consociated Pastors and Churches 
of the Colony of Connecticut, with the Advice of the General 
Association respecting Discipline in the year 1774 be printed 
forthwith and distributed to tlie several Consociated Pastors 
and Churches of this Colony; And the Scribe is directed to 
see it done. 

Truly extracted from the Minutes of the General Associa- 
tion. 

Test Ebenezar Baldwin, Scribe 



A true Entry of the Extracts from the Minutes of the Gen- 
eral Association. 

Test Benjamin Trumbull, Register. 

N. B. The original Minutes of the General Association 
in 1776 being lost (probably taken and destroyed by the 
enemy at Turtle Bay, where the Rev' M"^ Baldwin lost a con- 



OF THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 89 

siderable Number of his Manuscripts, or afterwards in their 
Excursion to Danbury) these Extracts, which had been pi'e- 
served in the printed Address to the Consociated l^isturs 
and Churches of the Colony of Connecticut, are registered in 
their proper Place, agreeable to a Vote of the General Asso- 
ciation in June 1778, which may be seen in its Place. 

An ADDRESS of the General Association to the CONSO- 
CIATED PASTORS and CHURCHES in the Colony of 
Connecticut. 
Reverend and Beloved^ 

Deeply impressed with a sense of the calamitous State in 
which our Land is imolved : Reduced by the arbitrary edicts 
of the Britisli Parliament, and the cruel and inhuman Meth- 
ods used to inforce them to the sad Necessity of defending 
by Force and Arms those precious Privileges which our 
Fathers fled into this Wilderness quietly to enjoy: Declared 
Rebels by the British King and Parliament; Not only the 
Power of Britain, but a large Army of Foreign Mercenaries, 
hired at a most extravagant Price, employed to dragoon us 
into Obedience or rather abject Submission to Tyrrany : Our 
Foreign Txade almost annihilated: Many of our Towns 
ruined and destroyed : Our Children, our Friends, our dear- 
est Connections called from our Bosoms to the Field of Bat- 
tle; and some of them captivated and enslaved by our cruel 
and insulting Foes : Detestible Parricides interspersed among 
us, aiming to give a fatal stab to the Country which gave 
them birth, and hath hitherto fostered them in her indulgent 
Bosom: And in many Places both at home and abroad 
deplorable Sickness wasting away the Inhabitants of our 
Land : Deeply impressed with a View of these dire Calamities, 
we are led anxiously to enquire what Sins and Iniquities 
prevalent in our Land have called down these heavy Judg- 
ments of Heaven upon us : Fully assured both from sacred 
Writ and the usual Method of the Dispensations of God's 
Providence, that such Calamities are ever the effects of 
abounding Sin and Iniquity, and that sincere Repentance, 
12 



90 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

and a thor'o Reformation is the only probable Method to 
avert these Tokens of Divine Wrath. 

Upon serious Enquiry we find there is an awful Declension 
from tliat purity and Strictness both of Doctrine and 
Manners which characterized our Ancestors, whom God so 
signally planted, protected and defended in this Land. 
Many of the distinguishing Doctrines of the Gospel are 
treated by great Numbers not only with disregard and 
Neglect, but even with Contempt : Such as the Doctrines of 
the Sovereignty of divine Grace : Of the Necessity of a deep 
and thoro' Conviction of Sin, and of Conversion by the 
effecacious regenerating Influence of the divine Spirit : Of 
the necessity of internal Holiness in order to Salvation &c. 
But still greater is the awful Depravation of our Manners. 
God's Sabbaths which used in the primitive Ages of New 
England to be kept with a most exemplary Strictness, are 
now most impiously profaned : In many by slothful Absence 
from public Worship, or by unnecessary Travelling, Busi- 
ness, or Visiting on God's holy Day : In others by a careless, 
indolent and irreverent Attendance on public Worship ; or 
by playful Diversions, especially of the younger Sort, even in 
the Time of divine Service : By spending the interims of 
public Worship in discoursing of public News or other 
secular Concerns. And the remainder of the Day, not appro- 
priated to public Worship, instead of being spent in family 
Instruction and Worship, and the Duties of the Closet, is 
but too generally wasted away in slothful Indolence, or 
trifling Amusements. And so awfully is God's sacred Name 
profaned among us that the vices of profane Cursing and 
Swearing, which but lately were confined to a few despicable 
Wretches in our populous and trading Towns, contaminated 
by their Intercourse with Foreigners, have now penetrated 
the obscurest corners of our Country ; so that even the most 
remote and obscure Villages will furnish each many 
Instances of Wretches expert in this Language of Hell : 
And in our Armies we have reason to fear that like a mighty 
Torrent it carries all before it. God's sacred Word is 



OF THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 91 

treated by amazing Numbers as tbo' nnwortliy tbeir serious 
Attention : Few appear anxions to found tlieir Faitb upon its 
sacred Truths, or conform tbeir Practice to its divine 
Precepts. The means of Religion we have been so highly 
favored with have been greatly abused. The Gospel of 
Jesus Clirist we have Reason to fear receives a cordial 
Welcome from but very few. God's Ordinances are treated 
by vast Numbers with Neglect, and by not a few we fear 
with Contempt. Great Numbers, much the greater Part of 
the rising Generation, tho' dedicated to God in Infancy 
neglect to take upon themselves the Bonds of the Covenant, 
which can be construed in no other Light, than a denial of 
Christ. As a consequence of this their Children are un- 
devoted to God in Baptism ; and much the greater Part of 
our Congregations turn their Backs upon the holy Ordinance 
of the Lord's Supper. And in many of our Churches 
numerous are those who are guilty of the most glaring Con- 
tradiction in that they show no Concern for the Improve 
ment of Religion in their own Souls by attending on the 
Ordinance of the Lord's Supper, while they appear anxious 
to devote their Children to God in Baptism. The Neglect of 
God's Worship in Families in a very growing and fashiona- 
ble Sin ; and as if the Hearts of Parents were hardened 
against the Fruit of their own Bowels — As if destitute of 
natural Affection, Parental Instructions in Religion, Coun- 
sels, Warnings and Restraints seem in great Measure to 
cease from among us. Many gross Immoralities shockingly 
abound, which are become so fashionable that in the estima- 
tion of many they almost cease to be Vices. Of this kind we 
may reckon Intemperance. How many wallow in the more 
than bestial sin of Drunkenness, and seek every Opportunity by 
the immoderate Use of Strong Drink to deprive tJiemselves of 
Reason that distinguishing Badge of Humanity and reduce 
themselves to a level with the Brutes ! Almost beyond 
Account have been the Quantities of strong Drink annually 
consumed in this Colony ; and the mournful Complaitits 
under the present Scarcity, show what a wietched Influence 



92 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

it hath acquired over us. Uncleanness, with many Customs 
and practices leading thereto — Injustice — Fraud — Oppres- 
sion — Extortion — Covetousness — Selfishness — A want»of 
Love to our Country, and of a Disposition to prefer the great 
Interests of the Community to the little private Interests of 
our own — A Disposition to Anarchy while struggling for 
Liberty — Impatience under lawful and necessary Restraints 
— A boundless Freedom in censuring the Conduct and 
defaming the Characters of others, while that Christian 
Watchfulness and brotherly Reproof which the Gospel 
enjoins is almost fallen into disuse, and that wholesome 
Discipline which Christ hatli appointed to be Kept up in his 
Church for the preventing and correcting of Immoralities 
seems in our Churches to be in a languishing, dying State. 

And under all these Judgments and Calamities an awful 
Stupidity seems to prevail among all Ranks of Men : In a 
a great Measure insensible of the Hand of God herein, while 
we are venting our Resentment against and loading with 
Imprecations the Instruments of our Sufferings : Attending 
to them rather as Injuries from Man, than the righteous Cor- 
rections of an holy God, justly provoked by our Sins. So far 
from being led to a general Repentance and Reformation by 
these awful Judgments, every Species of Wickedness seems 
rather increasing in our Land. A Confidence of Success 
seems to prevail, without a proportionate Concern to remove 
the procuring Cause of our Afflictions. These and the like, 
appear to us, upon serious Enquiry, to be the prevailing Sins 
of our Land. 

Now the Voice of Revelation and Reason conspire to warn 
us against entertaining Expectations of a Restoration of our 
former Tranquility and Happiness, unless these abounding 
Sins and Iniquities, the procuring Cause of these Evils, be in 
some Measure removed. They jointly bid us expect accumu- 
lated Miseries and Destresses, till a general Reformation take 
Place. They equally join to encourage our Hopes, that, upon 
Virtue and Religion's flourishing again, God's Hand now so 
heavy upon us will be removed and our former Tranquility 
and Happiness be restored. > 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 93 

Tenderly concerned (as we would hope) for both the tem- 
poral and spiritual Interests of our dear Country, and fully 
convinced of the Necessity of our being dee])ly humbled under 
a Sense of our Sins, and of a general Reformation's taking 
Place, in Order to obtain and secure these invaluable Bles- 
sings ; we hope we shall obtain the serious Attention of our 
Brethren in the Gospel Ministry, and their and our respective 
Churclies, While we endeavor to unite our Voice with tliat of 
our civil Fathers in bearing our Testimony against these 
Heaven-provoking Sins, in resolving against them, and 
earnestly exhorting to sincere Repentance and Reformation. 

We would earnestly exhort our brethren in the Ministry, 
at the same time resolving the same for ourselves, to labor 
abundently for the conviction of their Hearers of the preval- 
ence of these and the like Iniquities : To urge every Argu- 
ment and Motive to persuade to Repentance and Reforma- 
tion ; to dwell much in their preaching upon these seasonable 
and necessary Topics : to be painful and diligent in catechis- 
ing and instructing the Children and Youth, with unremitting 
Importunity to call upon Parents to discharge their Duty to 
their dear Offspring ; to use their utmost Endeavor to revive 
languishing Discipline ; and especially by their own Example 
to recommend and enforce that Reformation, those Virtues 
and that Religion they teach the Necessity of. 

We would earnestly request those to wliom the Execution 
of our civil Laws are intrusted, to lend a helping Hand 
towards this necessary Reformation, by restraining open 
Immoralities by a due Execution of the Laws against them ; 
especially against profane Cursing and Swearing, Sabbath- 
breaking and Intemperance ; in which we fear there is a 
sinful Neglect ; A vigorous Execution of the Laws may be a 
means to prevent the outward Deed, tlio' it do not mend the 
Heart, and so may preserve others from the Contagion of 
general example. Let not such take it amiss, if we remind 
them that their Duty to God, tlieir Duty to their Neighbour, 
and the solemn Oath they are under, do all oblige to this. 

We would earnestly intreat tJie Professors of Religioxi, the 



94 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Members of our Churches, who are bound by God's sacred 
Covenant to a Life of Purity and Holiness, zeah:)usly to exert 
themselves to promote this necessary and important Work. 
The eyes of God and man are upon them ; God expects them 
to lead in this Work : Their Vows, their Privileges lay them 
under tlie highest Obligations thereto. If forward in this 
Work, their example may have the most salutary Effects ; 
if backward, in all Probability will be an insurmountable 
Obstacle. Tis to be feared that some if not most of the Sins 
mentioned as abounding in our Land are to be found with 
some of this Number. Let the guilty be exhorted to sincere 
Repentance and Reformation ; to render their Reformation 
visible to those around them, that their Light may shine 
before others, and their Example powerfully draw them to 
Immitation. Let every one faithfully bear Testimony against 
these abounding Sins ; by prudent Advice, Council, Warning 
and Reproof, laboring to bring others to join in this wished 
for Reformation. And as it lies with them principally to 
revive the languishing Discipline of our Churches, let them 
be exhorted faithfully to execute the Laws of our dear 
Redeemer who alone is King and Lawgiver in his Church. 
And as many who profess the Religion of Jesus, do as we 
apprehend, shamefully contradict it in their Practice, by 
refusing to commemorate the dying Love of our dear 
Redeemer, we would exliort such carefully to examine whether 
they have any just ground for making such a Distinction 
between the Ordinances of our Lord and Saviour ; and 
whether the Practice be not a virtual Contradiction of their 
Profession ; That they would with sincere and honest Hearts 
practice all the Commands of our dear Saviour and thus 
show forth that they are genuine Disciples of the blessed 
Jesus. 

As the rising Generation, who are under the special In- 
struction, Direction and Government of their Parents, are at 
present an important Part of the Community, and will soon 
succeed in Place of those who are continually going off the 
Stage of action. Parents and Heads of Families have a most 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 96 

important Part to act in effecting (under God) this so much 
desired Reformation. We would therefore earnestly intreat 
Parents, as they regard the Interests of Religion ; as they 
legard the Interest and Happiness of their distressed Coun- 
try ; as they have any Bowels of Compassion toward tlieir 
dear and beloved Offspring; that they would be faithful in 
instructing their Children and those under their Care in the 
Principles of Virtue and Religion — in enforcing upon them 
by every Argument and Motive the Practice of it ; in keep- 
ing strict Order, Regularity and Government in their Fami- 
lies ; in councelling, warning and restraining them when 
needful ; that they may be educated in the Nurture and Ad- 
monition of the Lord ; that being trained up in the Ways of 
Religion and Virtue, they may (by God's blessing) become 
orderly and wholesome Members of Society, and Plants of 
Renown in the Vineyard of our Lord and Saviour. 

And as the future Hopes both of the temporal and Spirit- 
ual Prosperity of our Country are so much founded upon the 
rising Generation we would be importunate with the Youth 
of our Churches and Congregations heartily to join in this 
necessary and important Work of Reformation — That they 
would seriously consider they have a greater Interest in the 
Prosperity of their Country than those more advanced in 
Years : That the important Betrustment now lodged with 
their parents of transmitting the Blessings of Religion and 
Liberty to Posterity will soon devolve upon them ; That they 
have immortal Souls bound to an Eternity of Happiness or 
Misery : That not only their own temporal and eternal 
Interests, but in some Degree also that of Thousands and 
Millions yet unborn will probably, in a great Degree, if not 
altogether, depend on the Resolution they now take, whether to 
join in this important Work, to renounce their Vices, Follies 
and Vanities and sincerely embrace & Practice the Religion of 
Jesus, to which they are bound by the most solemn Ties of 
God's Covenant, which they are laid under by Baptism : Or 
to continue in the Indulgence of those youthful Sins, which 
call down the Vengeance of Heaven upon our guilty Land : — 



96 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

That they would hear the Yoice of God now speaking to us 
in Accents of Thunder, and awake to Thoughtfulness, Seri- 
ousness and Religion. 

And we would earnestly request of Ministers, of Professors, 
of Parents & Children, that they would one and all unite (in 
such Manner & so often as shall be judged best and most 
convenient) with penitent Hearts, to confess and deplore 
their Sins before Almighty God, and implore his gracious 
Interposition in this Day of great Calamity and Danger, to 
deliver us from our present Troubles, restore us to our former 
State of Tranquility and Happiness, and that we may be and 
ever continue a People to his Praise and Glory. 

Signed by Order of the General Association 

John Trumbull Moderator, 
Test, Ebenezer Baldwin Scribe. 



1777. 

At a Meeting of the General Association of the State of 
Connecticut holden at Fairfield Tuesday June 17^'' 1777 at 
the House of the Rev.^ Andrew Eliot — 

Present — 

^ Joseph Strong 
Nathaniel Bartlet 
Robert Ross 
Hezekiah Gold '. 

. Nathan Williams'". 

The Reverend Mess" \ ^ i tt i.- j- 

^ Enoch Huntington 

Andrew Eliot '. 

Peter Starr *. 

Samuel Wales and ^ 

Abner Benedict ^ 

The Rev. Mr. Bartlet was chosen Moderator, M^ Wales 
Scribe. The Rev'd Robert Silliman then joined the Body. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 97 

The Preacher who had been appointed, not being present, 
the Rev^i Mr. Huntinoton was appointed in his Room. 

Mr. Huntington opened the Meeting by a public religious 
Exercise, delivering a Sermon from Isa. 42 Chap, the three 
last verses. 

The western Association in New London desiring the 
Advice of this Body with Regard to reprinting a Pamphlet 
giving the Reasons for which our non-conforming Progenitors 
dissented from the Conformists in England, the Pamphlet 
being read the further Consideration of it was defferred 'till 
tomorrow. 

Adjourned till to morrow morning 8 o'clock. Wednesday 
Morning 8 o'clock June 18^'' post Preces sederunt qui supra. 

M"" Ross and M"" Williams were appointed to make a 
Draught expressing the Sense of this Board with Regard to 
the above mentioned motion. The Draught was as follows, 
viz: 

A Motion was from the Western Association in New Lon- 
don County about reprinting a Letter from som^^ aged Non- 
conforming Ministers (as by the Copy of the Vote of said 
Association on Record may more fully appear) the general 
Association read over said Letter and think it very worthy 
to be preserved in our Churches to the latest Posterity : But 
inasmuch as the expense of Printing at this Time would be 
uncommonly great, and the attention of the Country is so 
much necessarily taken up about the present War ; we are 
of opinion (for these and other weighty reasons) it will bet- 
ter answer the desirable ends proposed to have it printed at 
some future Time. And we earnestly request the said the 
Western Association to procure said Letter and transmit it 
to the Register of this Body, that it may be sent by him 
along with the Records to the General Association from Time 
to Time. 

This Association then, taking into their serious Considera- 
tion the great and deplorable Neglect of the duties of Religion 
in general, and that important one of family Religion in par- 
ticular, even in this Day of sore Rebuke, in which an holy 

13 



98 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

God is clearly testifying his high Displeasure against us, and 
loudly calling us to Repentance and thoro' Reformation, and 
a diligent earnest seeking after Grod in all the ways of his 
appointment; do therefore beg Leave to recommend to the 
ministers and People in this State, to exert themselves in their 
several Stations to encourage and promote a Reformation 
with Regard to that great Duty. As a means to that End 
we think the Reprinting a serious Address of D"* P. Dodd- 
ridge to a Master of a Family on that subject reasonable and 
of public Utility : And for that end publish the following- 
Proposals for reprinting by Subscription, said Address. It 
will be contained on about two sheets. For effecting the 
abovesaid Republication, we the Subscribers do hereby prom- 
ise and engage to take off the Books we severally subscribe 
for, and pay the Money on the Delivery of said Books. 

P. S. It is recommended to Ministers in this State to use 
their influence to promote the Design in the several Parishes. 

M'". Joseph Strong, M"" Huntington, M"" Williams and M"- 
Strong of Hartford, are appointed Managers to carry the 
design into Effect. The following Gentlemen are appointed 
to take in Subscriptions, and send them to the Managers, 
viz: Messi's Ross of Stratfield, Edwards of New Haven, Gold 
of Cornwall, Huntington of Coventry, And Silliman of Say- 
Brook. 

N. B. If three hundred Subscribers appear the Publica- 
tion not to fail. 

The next General Association is appointed to be held at 
the House of the Rev.^ Warham Williams in Northford on 
the third Tuesday in June 1778. 

The above and foregoing passed as the Doings of this Asso- 
ciation. The meeting was then concluded with Prayer by 
the Rev.^ M"" Silliman at the Desire of the Moderator. 

Test Samuel Wales, Scribe. 

Truly registered — 

Test Benjamin Trumbull, 

Register. 



of the colony op connecticot. 99 

Notes. 

Hezekiah Gold Jim. Pastor in Cornwall from 1755 to 1790. 
Nathan Williams '^ in Tolland from 17G0 to 1813. 
Andi-ew Eliot " in Fairfield from 1774 to 1805. 

Peter Starr " in Warren from 1772 to 1825. 

Samuel Wales " in Milford from 1770 to 1782. 

Abner Benedict " in Middlefield from 1771 to 1785. 



1778. 

At a Meeting of the General Association of the State of 
Connecticut June 16^'^ 1778 — at Northford — 

Present — 

Joseph Bellamy 

Warham Williams 

Timothy Pitkin 

Nathanael Bartlet 

Nicholas Street'. 
The Rev^ Mess- < -^t^^i^^^ Williams 

Noah Wetmore 
Ammi Ruhamah Robbins 
Andrew Eliot and 
William Seward 

D"" Bellamy was chosen Moderator, and M"" Eliot, Scribe. 

The Association was opened with a Sermon preached by 
M"- Street from Rom. 13"' : 11"'. 

Mr. Trumbull register of the general Association repre- 
sented to the Body that he could not go on in the Business 
of his Office on account of his not being able to procure 
the original Manuscript of the doings of the Association in 
1776 — M'' Baldwin the Scribe of said Association having 
departed this Life — And it was thereupon Voted that M"" 
Waterman be desired to apply to M"" Baldwin, Father of tlie 
deceased for said Manuscript — And in case it cannot be 



LofC. 



100 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

recovered M"" Trumbull is directed to record the printed 
Address of the above-mentioned Association to tlie Churches. 

The Revd Aaron Kinne then joined the Body." 

It being represented to this Association that a Sum of 
Money subscribed for the purpose of sending Missionaries to 
preach the Gospel in the Settlements forming and formed to 
the North and Northwestward of this State, is in the hands 
of several Gentlemen in Continental Bills and Silver — M"" 
Warham Williams is hereby empowered and directed to 
receive and put the continental Money into the Loan Office 
— And M** Benjamin Trumbull is desired to Keep the Silver 
money in his possession for the present. 

The Revd Thomas Brockway then joined the Body.^ 

Voted, That it be recommended to the several Associations 
to send annually to the General Association a List of the 
Candidates for the Ministry that are licensed by them — 
their places of abode — and time of being licensed. 

The Association then adjourned until 7 o Clock tomorrow 
morning. 

June 17^'' met according to Adjournment. The Association 
viewing with deep Concern the growing immoralities of the 
present Times and the great danger our Youth and Children 
are in of being affected with diffusive Corruptions — do 
recommend to the respective Associations to consult what 
can be done for the Prevention of the spreading Infection 
among our Youth, and for the promoting of seriousness and 
Learning among Children in a parental way and also in our 
private Schools. 

The Association having been informed that the Rev^ M' 
Edwards of New Haven has transcribed a Number of his 
Father's Sermons, upon the Desire of Several Gentlemen in 
Scotland, to be printed there, and it being unlikely in the 
present State of Things that these Sermons can be sent to 
Scotland. — Voted to recommend it to M' Edwards to send 
printed subscription papers to the several Ministers of this 
State in Order to procure subscriptions for a small Volume of 
said Sermons. And we are of Opinion that the publishing 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 101 

such a Volume will be of great advantage to the Interests of 
Religion among our People. And also hope that this will 
prepare the way for printing the whole of the above-men- 
tioned discourses. 

The next general Association is appointed to be at Hadam 
at the House of the Rev^ M"- May. 

The above Voted unanimously to be the Doings of the 

Association — And the whole concluded with Prayer by the 

Moderator. 

Test Andrew Eltot Scribe 

A true Entry of the Doings of the Greneral Association 

Test Benjamin Trumbull, 

Register. 

Notes. 

\ Nicholas Street Pastor in East Haven from 1753 to 1806. 
\ Aaron Kinne " Groton " 1769 to 1798. 

^ Thomas Brockway " Columbia " 1772 to 1807. 



1779. 

At a Meeting of the general Association of the State of 
Connecticut by Delegation convened at the House of the 
Rev<^ M"" May in Haddam on the third Tuesday * of June 
AD 1779— Present — 

^Benjamin Pomeroy D. D. 

Stephen Johnson 

Robert Ross 

Eleazer May ^ 

Ebenezer Kellogg "^ 

Simon Waterman 

John Bliss ' 

W'" M. Tenant' 

Isaac Lewis 

Thomas Wells Bray ' and 
I^David Ely ' 



The Reyd Messrs << 



*June Ib^^. 



102 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

The Rev'i D'' Pomeroy was chosen Moderator ct M*" Ely 
Scribe. Several Gentlemen being occasionally present were 
invited to sit with the Association. 

The Association was then opened by the Moderator with a 
Sermon from Isa. xvi : 4, 5, which was succeeded after an 
intermission of 20 Minutes by a Sermon from the Rev^ M'' 
Tennant from Dan. iii. 17, 18. 

The Eev^ Mess'"'^ Beckwith and Kenny joined the Associa- 
tion. 

A Motion from the West Association in New London 
County, was then laid before the Association by their Dele- 
gates to this effect — "Considering the dark Aspect upon 
our Churches in the Discouragement lying upon Candidates 
entering into the Ministry, and the present destress and diffi- 
culties of them that are already in office — from whence we 
fear these Churches may be left without Lights in the Can- 
dlestick — We instruct our Delegates to lay our Sentiments 
before the general Association, and join (if it be thought 
proper) to call a Convention of the Clergy of the State, 
appointing Time and place where it may be thought most 
convenient to deliberate upon this subject. — Two things 
have been upon our Mind: viz. That an Address be made to 
the Rulers and People of this State, showing our apprehen- 
sion of the Danger, and the Propriety of some Exertions to 
save the Churches from Ruin. — Or that a modest, dutiful 
Representation be made to the Hon'^' Assembly of this State, 
in their next session in October, of these our Apprehensions 

— praying their Honors to take the same into Consideration 

— and do as Wisdom may direct." 

The motion was taken up, seriously considered, largely 
discussed. The Association then adjourned till tomorrow 
Morning 7 o' Clock. 

Wednesday morning met according to adjournment. Re- 
sumed the motion that was under Consideration last Evenino:. 
After a full Discussion, these Questions were proposed viz : 
1^^ Ques. Whether it be the minds of this Body that a Con- 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 103 

vention of the Clergy of tliis State, out of the several Asso- 
ciations to meet at some convenient Time & Place be called 
l>y this Body to take into Consideration the State of the 
Churches? — passed in the Negative. 

2"f^ Ques. proposed, Whether it be the mind of this Body 
at this Session, that they make an Address to the people at 
large? — passed in tlie Affirmative. A Committee was then 
appointed to form an Address — The Gentlemen appointed 
were tlie Rev^ Mess-^s Johnson, Ross, Bray & Lewis. 

The Committee appointed to prepare an Address to the 
people at large made their report. Theii" Draught was read. 
The Question then proposed was Whether this Board ap- 
proves of the Address and order it to be printed and recom- 
mend the same to be publickly read in the several Congrega- 
tions thro' the State ? Passed in the Affirmative. 

The next Question proposed was — Whether the next gen- 
eral Association should meet at M"" Williams's of Tolland? 
Passed in the affirmative. 

A motion was made to appoint Committees to prepare 
Draughts for an Address to the Hon^''' General Assembly, 
which they should lay before this Board at their next Meet- 
ing. It was put to vote Whether M*" Bray and M'" Water- 
man should be one of those Committees ? Passed in the 
Affirmative. — Put to Vote Whether M"- Ross and M"" Ten- 
nant should be the other Committee ? Passed in the 
Affirmative. 

It was then put to Vote Whether this Board would ap- 
point M"" Bray to correct and see printed the foregoing 
Address ? Passed in the Affirmative. It was then voted to 
adjourn this Association 'till the 2"^ Wednesday in Septem- 
ber next to meet at New Haven in the College ChapeP 9 
o'clock A. M. 

The foregoing was read and Voted as the Minutes of the 
Association. 

By the Order of the Moderator, the Association was tlien 
adjourned 'till the Time, and at the place above mentioned. 

Test David Ely, Scribe. 



i 



104 records of the general association 

Notes. 
\ Eleazar May Pastor in Haddam 1756 to 1803. 



Ebenezer Kellogg "• 
John Bliss '' 

W"' M. Tennaiit " 
Thomas Wells Bray " 
David Ely 



Yernon 1762 to 1817. 
Ellington 1764 to 1780. 
Greenfield 1772 to 1781. 
No. Guilford 1766 to 1808. 
Huntington 1773 to 1816. 



The Rev' Mess--^ J 



1780. 

At a meeting of the General Association of the State of 
Connecticut, at Tolland on the third Tuesday of June 1780* 

Present 

C Samuel Lockwood 

Elijah Loothroop 

Robert Ross 

Josiah Whitney ' 

Nathan Williams 

Andrew Storis 

Joseph Huntington 

Theodore Hinsdale 

Elisha Rexford' 
(^ William Seward 

The Rev^ M"" Lockwood was cliosen Moderator and Joseph 
Huntington Scribe. . 

The Association was opened with prayer by the Rev<^ 
W Ross and a Sermon by the Rev' M"" Hinsdale, for which 
thanks were in form returned by the body. 

A motion was then made by the Delegates from Windham 
County in favor of the promotion of Family religion, public 
renewal of Covenant with God &c. as contained in a Writing 
bearing date May 16th lygQ. 

This Association having duly considered the lamentable 



*June 20*^ 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 105 

decleiition which appears among the people of God, both in 
doctrine, manners and discipline do earnestly I'econmiend 
that each particular association, or the ministers thereof, in 
smaller districts, as shall be by them deemed most con- 
venient, speedily convene together for the purpose of solemn 
fasting and prayer to Almighty Clod for themselves, their 
people and for the inhabitants of the Land, in this day of 
abounding iniquity under the awful Judgments of tlie Most 
High ; and to bewail before him the manifold abominations, 
whereby we have provoked his holy and awful indignation ; 
to humble themselves in his presence, and, as in dust and 
ashes, implore his mercy for liis people : — That for his own 
name sake, and for the displays of his own glory, he would 
be pleased to visit all the inhabitants of the Land with the 
effecacious energy of his holy spirit, that true religion may 
universally revive in the power and glory of it, and that all 
our abounding vices and immoralities may be effectually 
suppressed. 

We further advise, that each particular association do, as 
shall appear to them most proper and becoming stir up 
themselves and one another, and address all, ages and 
characters of people under their spiritual watch and care in 
such a solemn and particular manner, as shall appear to 
them best adapted for the. awakening, instruction, and 
reformation of this stupid and backsliding generation : — 
That they earnestly exhort every one to forsake their sins 
and turn to the God of their Fathers and prepare to meet 
Him with unfeigned repentance, holy submission, and an 
intire dedication of themselves to him, now he is coming out 
against us in the terrors of his Wrath, and not meeting us 
as a man. 

We do also judge it is agreeable with the Will of heaven, 
at this day, that, according to the frequent practice of the 
people of God, in ages past, and which he has always approved 
by gracious Manifestations of acceptance, the ministers of 
the Gospel do call on the people of their charge, by fasting 
and prayer to humble themselves under the mighty hand of 
14 



106 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

God, to put away all their sins and openly, explicitly an 
speedily to acknowledge as the God of their Fathers, and 
their God, in that relation, in which they respectively stand, 
whether as those who have openly avouched the Lord Jehovah 
as their God and everlasting Portion, and that eat and drink 
with Christ at his sacred Table, or as those who have received 
the ordinance of Baptism for themselves and children ; or if 
they are only distinguished from the nations that know not 
God, by having their lot in a valley of Vision, and under the 
glorious light of the Gospel and calls of redeeming love : — 
That all may know the bonds of God that are upon them 
respectively, and be sensible how much he reasonably requires 
of them, in grateful and dutiful returns for all his benefits. 

We do also advise that each association and each minister 
of the Gospel, in particular, with becoming zeal for the honor 
of Christ, and the good of his people exert themselves for the 
revival of discipline in the Church, watching over each other 
in love, and striving together according to the rules of the 
Gospel, that all who have the vows of God upon them may 
know and regard their Duty in all things: — And, that all 
labor for those things that in the Way of pure religion make 
for peace, that the God of peace may return to us, in his 
great mercy and dwell with us, as the Glory of his people in 
the midst of them, and be our almighty protector, as a Wall 
of fire about us on every side. 

Considering that several pastors and Churches in diverse 
parts of the Land, with whom we have been united in the 
bonds of christian and ministerial fellowship have of late 
gone into practices whose direct tendency is sensibly to wound 
the tender ties of Charity which have connected us together, 
and bring on a disunion, particularly in refusing intercourse 
of ministerial Labors, and to receive our members, on recom- 
mendation from the pastors and churches to which they 
belonged, to their Communion, without a particular and per- 
sonal examination. 

This association think ourselves called upon to declare that 
we view those practices of our dearly beloved brethren and 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 107 

their Churches with deep concern and grief, as we deem the 
differences on which tliey proceed, as by no means sufficient 
to render a separation between us either necessary or war- 
rantable, and that we are ready notwithstanding to receive 
them in the Lord and to the utmost of our power and Oppor- 
tunity to cultivate harmony and Communion with them in 
all things wherein we are or may be agreed, and to endeavour 
a removal of our unhappy differences, in due time, in that 
Spirit of meekness, humility, prudence and moderation which 
the gospel requires, or if that should be found impracticable, 
to bear and conduct our differences in the same spirit. 

And we do earnestly recommend it to our brethren of the 
several associations to cultivate the same spirit and walk in 
the same Line of prudent Christian Conduct towards those 
well meaning, but as we apprehend over scrupulous, though 
still beloved ministers and churches, who have adopted the 
above mentioned grievous practices. 

Voted that the Scribe be desired to make public this Clause 
in the result as opportunity may present. 

Voted that Mess'"s Rowland of Windsor and Strong of 
Symsbury be recommended by the Moderator or Scribe in the 
name of this association to go and preach the Gospel to those 
who are destitute of it in the State of Vermont, so called, 
and parts adjacent. 

Voted that the next general Association be at the House 
of the Rev'^ M"" Stone of Lebanon. 

Signed by order of the Association 

Joseph Huntington, Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Josiah Whitney Pastor in Brooklyn 1756 to 1812. 
\ Elisha Rexford " Monroe 1765 to 1808. 



108 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



1781. 

At a meeting of the General Association of the State of 

Connecticut, convened by delegation at the house of tlie 

Rev.<^ M^ Stone of Goshen, in Lebanon Tuesday June the 

19^" 1781 

Present 

^ Ephraim Little 

Benjamin Pomeroy 

Benjamin Throop 

Jeremiah Day ' 
The Rev^ Mess'*^ <! Benjamin Dunning 

Timothy Stone '. 

Samuel Eells '. 

Thomas Wells Bray 
^ Jonathan Murdock 

and produced attested certificates of their appointment. 

Mr. Little was chosen moderator and M"" Bray was chosen 
Scribe. 

The association was opened witli prayer by moderator. 
The preacher appointed being necessarily detained, Voted, 
That M"" Day be desired to preach. Adjourned for public 
worship. A Sermon was preached by M"" Day from John 
17 : 21, 22, 23^^ The Rev^ Joel Benedict joined the Associa- 
tion. Adjourned till 7 o'Clock tomorrow morning. 

Wednesday June 20"'. Met according to adjournment. 
Ordered that an address be drawn up to our brethren in the 
ministry which is as followeth. 

This association taking into consideration the duty of 
prayer as very suitable and important for God's people at all 
times, but especially when the daughter of Zion is covered 
with a Cloud as at the present day, and that special, united 
and earnest prayer, with perseverance in it is both our great 
privilege and duty when under peculiar and trying dispensa- 
tions of divine providence ; do cheerfully unite and engage 
for ourselves, and most seriously recommend to all our 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 109 

Brethren in the ministry, tlirougli this State, to stir up them-« 
selves and the people of their respective charges to fervency 
and perseverance in prayer. Especially tliat tlicy would lead 
the way and use their influence witli tlieir respective congre- 
gations to set apart weekly some little portion of Time for 
special prayer to our covenant God ; That he would gloriously 
display himself for the deliverance of this people, and for 
the building up and prosperity of Zion. We should think 
that as great a Union as may be, respecting the time of this 
duty might be very suitable ; and would recommend a general 
Rule, Wednesday of each week a little before evening. But 
leaving our Brethren to choose for themselves as to the time, 
and the frequency of it, we do with affection and earnestness 
recommend the duty itself. We ought always to pray and 
not to faint. Have we not peculiar reasons for special prayer 
at this day ? Have we not all possible encouragement to the 
sweet and precious duty from every manifestation of our 
gracious God ? Has the great Head of the Church in past 
times been a Wilderness and a land of drought unto his 
people ? let us never say unto him in heart or in conduct, 
we will come no more unto thee. 

Voted that copies of this address be sent out from this 
association to our several brethren in the ministry through 
the State, and that all or any of them be desired to assist us 
in this matter as they shall have opportunity. 

Voted that the next general association be at the house of 
the Rev<^ M"* of Ripton, in Stratford on the third Tuesday in 
June next, conckided with prayer. 

True minutes of the Association — 

Attest Thomas Wells Bray, Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Jeremiah Day Pastor New Preston 1770-1806. 

•^ Timothy Stone " Goshen, Lebanon 1767-1797. 

\ Samuel Eells " No. Brandford 1769-1808. 

4 T 1 T> 0- . u Lisbon / 1770-1781. 

. Joel Benedict Plainfield 1784-1816. 



110 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

1782. 

At a meeting of the General Association of the State of 
Connecticut, at the house of the Rev'' David Ely in Ripton 
June 18th A. D. 1782 

^Samuel Newell 
Hezekiah Gold 
Cotton M. Smith 
Richard Ely \ 
Noah Williston '. 
Present Rev^ Messi's <J Andrew Eliot 

Elisha Rexford 
Cyprian Strong 
Isaac Lewis 
Thomas Minor ^ 
David Ely 

The Rev^ Samuel Newell was chosen Moderator and 
Cyprian Strong Scribe. 

The association was opened by a Sermon from Isaiah 62 : 6, 7 
preached by the Rev^ Elisha Rexford. 

The Rev^ Messrs. Timothy Stone and Thomas Brockway 
joined this Body. 

At the same Meeting Voted Tliat whereas it is thought 
expedient by this association, that an alteration should take 
place as to the time of the sessions of this Body, that it be 
recommended to each particular association to instruct their 
Delegates to the next General association, as to the Time; 
particularly as to the propriety and expediency of altering 
the time of its Session from the third Tuesday in June to the 
last Tuesday in September. 

The association was adjourned till 7 o' Clock tomorrow 
morning. The association met according to adjournment. 

The Question was put to this association — Whether min- 
isters of the Gospel have a right, by civil Law, to recover 
their salaries or stipulated support? 

Voted in the affirmative. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 



Ill 



At the same time voted That it be recommended to each 
particular association, annually to return to the general asso- 
ciation an account of the number of the Candidates they 
have licensed in their several districts, and of those wlio are 
acting under their license. 

Voted, That the next general association be held at the 
house of the Rev^ M"" Johnson in Lyme. 

The following is a return made to the general Association 
of the Candidates in the State. 



M. 


r Lockwood 


M' 


• Plum 


M' 


Miller 


M' 


Mills 


M. 


•• Edd Mills 


M- 


Mitchell 


M- 


Bell 


Mr 


Eve ret 


M' 


Farmale 


M' 


Joshua Pe 


M" 


■ Lankton 


M- 


■ Hotchkiss 


M' 


" Austin 


M' 


' Ely 


M 


' Cook 


M 


f Rogers 


M- 


^ Barnet 


M 


f Baldwin 


M 


^ Barlow 


M 


^ Prudden 


M 


r. Fowler 


M 


^ Lyon 


M 


■• Hyde 


M 


r Ely 



)>Tn Hartford South Association 



^Litchfield Association 



J 



I 

l>New Haven Association 



Windham Association 



Hartford North 



N. B. The doings of Association entered above are not 
attested by the Scribe, as may appear by the original on file, 



112 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

but was by liim enclosed in a Letter to the Register as a 
Record of tlie doings of said Association, and is truly entered. 

Test Benjajviin Trumbull, Register 

of the General Association. 

Notes. 

\ Richard Ely — Pastor — No. Madison — 1757-1785. 
\ Noah Williston — West Haven— 1760-1811. 
^ Thomas Miner — Westfield — 1773-1820. 



1783. 

The General Association of the State of Connecticut met 
at the House of the Rev^erend M"" Johnson in Lyme on the 
17*^ Day of June AD 1783 

Present — 

'^ James Cogswell 
Stephen Johnson 
Warham Williams 
Cotton Mather Smith 
Josiah Whitney 
Eleazer May 
Elizur Goodrich 
Theodore Hinsdale 
Elijah Parsons (\) 
David Ely and 
Nathan Perkins ('.) 



The Reverend Messieurs <' 



The Reverend M"" Cogswell was chosen Moderator, and M"" 
Goodrich was chosen Scribe. 

The Association was opened with prayer offered by the 
moderator. 

The Reverend M"* Dunning, who was appointed to. preach 
on the occasion, being absent, the Rev^ M'" Wliitney wns 
desired to perform that Service. 

The General Association took into consideration the pvo- 
posed alteration of the time of its meeting, and having heard 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 113 

the opinion and sentinionts of the several particular Asso- 
ciations, as communicated by the memhcrs present, this 
association is unanimously of the opinion, that an alteration 
of the time of its meeting is inexpedient and tlierefore tluit 
the General Association shall continue to meet on the Tliird 
Tuesday of June as usual. 

The Rev^'. M''. Aaron Kinne joined the association. 
Voted unanimously. That it be recommended to the particu- 
lar associations that the Recommendations of Candidates for 
})reaching the Gospel be limited for tlie space of four years, 
and that the limitation be expressed in tlie recommendation, 
and provided the candidates shall not be settled in the 
ministry within that term, and yet still aim to continue in 
the business of preaching, that tliey apply for a renewal of 
their recommendation, either to the association which gave 
them the former recommendation, or to that in which they 
mostly reside. 

The following questions were proposed to this association 
by the Eastern association in New London County. 

l«f. What is the duty of ministers when invited. to sit in 
council with separate preachers to advise in matters respect- 
ing a union between Brethren of the standing churches and 
those of the separate preachers ? 

2. Is it matter of duty and expediency to introduce any of 
the separate preachers into the ministry if they will submit 
to regular Ordination ? 

3. What shall be done respecting our destitute Churches 
and congregations whose resettlement in the enjoyment of 
gospel ordinances is improbable ? 

The General Association having considered these Ques- 
tions is unanimously of opinion in respect of the first 
Question, That regular ministers should not set in council 
with separate preachers in any such form as shall expressly 
or constructively approve or own such separate preachers, in 
the character of ministers properly authorized according to 
the gospel constitution. 

In regard to the second Question, the general association 

15 



114 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

is unanimously of the opinion that however there may 
possibly be cases in which those who have been separate 
preachers, on proper application being found on trial and 
examination by some regular association, or by a council of 
regular ministers and churches, to renounce their separatical 
principles and practices and to be otherwise qualified may be 
admitted to regular ordination, yet considering the dangerous 
nature and pernicious effects of those principles and 
practices, if any of those preachers are ever admitted to 
regular ordination it ought to be done with great caution, 
and not until such preachers have reconciled themselves 
to the churches from which they have separated, which is 
therefore earnestly recommended to the several associations 
in all such cases as may arise, and to all councils who may 
be concerned in them. 

The General Association in consideration of the third 
Question unanimously recommend to the several Associations 
in which such vacant churches and congregations are found to 
afford them all the assistance tliey can with convenience, 
especially by preaching frequent Lectures among them, and 
administering the ordinances of the gospel as often as may be. 

At the same time the General association earnestly recom- 
mend to all such churches and congregations the most serious 
attention to their State and the awful danger they are in of 
exposing themselves to the displeasure of the great Head 
and King of the Church, while they live destitute of a settled 
gospel ministry and ordinances, and without taking suitable 
pains to enjoy them, and that they be exhorted to use all 
proper means to resettle the gospel ministry : and the particu- 
lar associations are desired to notify this recommendation to 
such vacant churches and join their recommendation to this. 
The General Association is further of Opinion that the matter 
is of so great and serious importance as to require the atten- 
tion of ministers and people in general ; and therefoi'e the 
general Association appoint the Reverend Messieurs Cotton 
Mather Smith, Robert Ross, Eleazer May, John Devotion, 
Theodore Hinsdale, Levi Hart, Timothy Stone, Isaac Lewis 
and Samuel Walls a committee to consider the matter at 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 115 

large. The Committee is desired to obtain the best advice 
tliey can of ministers and other Gentlemen of Character in 
this State, as to what further measures may be expedient, 
and make report to the next General Association. 

The first meeting of the Committee is appointed to be at 
Yale College in New Haven the day after Commencement at 
9 oClock in tlie morning. 

The next General Association is appointed to meet at the 
House of the Rev' Samuel Jolm Mills in Torringford in the 
County of Litchiicld at 11 oClock in the Forenoon of tlie 
third Tuesday of June next. 

A true Record of the Doings of the General Association. 

Test Elizur Goodrich, Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Elijah Parsons Pastor East Haddam 1772-181(3. 
'-'. Nathan Perkins " West Hartford 1772-1833. 

1 784 . 

At a meetino- of the General Association in the State of 
Coimecticut, convened at the house of tlie Rev^ M"" Mills in 
Torringford on the third Tuesday in June 1781* 

Present 

Rev^' Mess'rs Jonathan Mash ' and Timothv Pitkin, from 
the North Association in Hartford County, Andrew Stores 
from the Association in New Haven County, John Smalley 
and Abner Benedict from the south association in the County 
of Hartford, Jeremiah Day and Samuel Mills, from the Asso- 
ciation in the County of Litclifield, Justus Mitchell '^ from 
the westerii association in Fairfield County, Henry Ely ^ from 
the Avestern association in the County of New London, 
Samuel Nott* from the eastern Association in the County of 
New London. 

Rev^ M"" Pitkin was chosen moderator of the General 
Association. 

M"" Justus Mitchell was chosen Scribe. 

* June 15"\ 



116 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

The association was opened by the public service performed 
by Mr Day." 

A report of the Committee appointed by the last General 
Association, to attend to the state of destitute churches, was 
laid before this association, and after an amendment was 
adopted, as follows. 

A Committee having been appointed by this Body at their 
last Session to take into consideration the condition of the 
destitute Churches in this State, in order to their supply ; 
and said Committee having reported what appeared to them 
the most eligible method of treating those destitute Churches^ 
which neglect a becoming care for the enjoyment of Gospel 
ordinances, and their resettlement among them. 

On hearing the report of said Committee, this association, 
after deliberating and conversing largely upon the subject, is 
of opinion, that in cases where there may be reason to 
apprehend a faulty neglect of proper endeavours, in any 
destitute Church to settle a minister over them in the Lord, 
it is the duty of those pastors, wlio are in the vicinity, to 
take with them some respectable characters from among the 
brethren of their churches, and obtain a Conference with the 
members of such destitute church, and in a candid Christian 
manner enquire into tlie causes of their neglect ; and if they 
shall find them guilty of censurable negligence, to inculcate 
upon them the importance of gospel ordinances, and (if 
possible) to persuade them to pay a proper attention to the 
matter, and if such measures should prove ineffectual, and 
said Churcli continue criminally negligent, after due pains 
taken, that it is the duty of such neighbouring pastors and 
brethren, to exliibit a complaint against such churcli to the 
moderator of the Consociation to which it belongs, if con- 
sociated, that it may be dealt with as walking disorderly, and 
cut off from the Body if irreclaimable ; and if said church 
be unconsociated that it is the duty of the churches in com- 
munion with it to withdraw communion from it, if found 
pertinaciously offending against the Laws of Christ in the 
above particular. But that those individuals of such offend- 
ipg Church, as appear disposed to walk orderly, if any such 



OF THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 



117 



there be, ouglit to be taken under tlie protection of neij^libor- 
ing sister Churches, or the consociation, if consociated. 

The association adjourned till seven o'clock tomorrow 
morning. The Association met according to adjournment. 
The Scribe was appointed to transcribe the report, and send 
one to each association in this State. 

The next General Association is appointed to be attended 
on the third Tuesday in June next, at the House of M^. Sam- 
uel Nott, in the 2^ Society of Norwich, and eastern Associa- 
tion in the County of New London. 

Test Justus Mitchell, Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Jonathan Marsh Pastor in New Hartford from 1739-1794. 
\ Justus Mitchell " " New Canaan " 1783-1806. 
\ Henry Ely " " Killingworth " 1782-1801. 



Samuel Nott 



" Franklin 



1782-1849. 



1785. 

At a meeting of the General Association of the ministers 
of the State of Connecticut at the house of the Rev^ Samuel 
Nott in Norwich on the third Tuesday in June 1785* 



Reverend Messieurs <J 



Present — 

^ James Cogswell, Moderator 

Josiah Whitney, Scribe 

Richard Ely 

George Colton '. 

Enoch Huntington 

Ammi Ruhamah Robbins 

Levi Hart 

Theodore Hinsdale 

Thomas Wells Bray 

John Avery ^ 

Samuel Nott 

Stephen Williams Stebbins ^ 



* June 21. 



118 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

The Association was opened with prayer by the moderator. 
Upon representation that the Lecture the day after Com- 
mencement at New Haven is not attended upon by ministers 
in general and thereby the design thereof is much frustrated, 
the opinion of this association is asked, whether it is advisa- 
ble said Lecture be continued ? This Association taking into 
consideration the general design thereof, are unwilling it 
should be discontinued; therefore would earnestly recom- 
mend it to the particular Associations to desire those of their 
Body who may attend Commencements, not to suffer any lit- 
tle inconvenience to prevent their attendance upon a service 
peculiarl}^ designed for their profit; lest they give occasion 
to its being said that ministers are as unmindful of obliga- 
tions to attend religious services as others. 

The following questions were proposed to the Association. 

1. Whether the practice of inviting young Gentlemen to 
preach, and recommending them to the Work of the ministry 
before they have been examined and approved by Associa- 
tions or their Committee be regular ? 

Voted in the Negative. 

2. Whether tlie late Ordination of one M"* Day at Killingly 
performed by Hesse's Cleveland, Bradford, Snow, Park and 
Spalding ought to be acknowledged regular ? Voted in the 
negative. 

Resolved by this Body, that tlie practice of marrying per- 
sons not having their intentions of marriage published as the 
law directs is irregular and of pernitious tendency ; and trust 
that ministers will not join any in marriage before they have 
observed the steps of the law in this matter. 

This Association taking into consideration the great duty 
and importance of having the interpositions of providence in 
the events that liave effected and attended the late American 
Revolution, religiously improved, not only by present but 
future generations, and that some suitable and concise history 
be prepared for that purpose ; accordingly request the fol- 
lowing Gentlemen viz : Rev.^ Hesse's Enoch Huntington, Ben- 
jamin Trumbull, Levi Hart, Theodore Hinsdale and Thomas 



OF THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 



119 



Wells Bray to collect and compile such a history ; and that 
the Rev^ M"" Trumbull in particnhir be desired to digest and 
write the whole and prepare it for the jiress. 

Voted that the next General Association be at th6 House 
of the Rev/' D"" Goodrich at Durham. 

Signed by order of the Association, 

JosiAH Whiting, Scribe. 

Notes. 

'. George Colton Pastor in Bolton from 1763-1812. 
■-'. John S. Avery " Stamford " 1779-1791. 

\ Stephen W. Stebbins " Stratford " 1784-1818. 



1786. 

At a meeting of the General Association of the State of 
Connecticut at the House of the Rev^' Elizur Goodrich D.D. 
in Durham June 20^'' A. D. 1786 

Present 

^Joseph Bellamy D.D. 
Stephen Johnson 
Robert Ross 
Josiah Whitney 
Elizur Goodrich D.D. 
Jolm Devotion 
Benjamin Boardman 
Enoch Huntino'ton 
Jonathan Edwards D.D. '. 
Nathan Perkins 
Noah Merwin ". 
Samuel Nott and 
Nathan Fenn '. 

The Reverend D"^ Joseph Bellamy w^as chosen Moderator, 
and Enoch Huntington, Scribe. The Association was opened 
with prayer and a Sermon by the Reverend D"" Edwards from 



Reverend Messieurs <J 



120 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

1 Cor. 1 : 30. For in him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God 
is made unto us — Righteousness. 

Voted by this Association, that the Reverend M"^ Benjamin 
TrumbVill be desired to proceed in the compilation of the 
History which he, together with others, was desired by the 
last General Association to form, in commemoration and for 
the serious improvement of the events attending the late 
American Revolution ; and that Messieurs Robert Ross and 
Enoch Huntington inform him of this desire of the present 
General Association, and afford liim their advice and assist- 
ance in carrying this desire into execution. 

This Association received of the Reverend Benjamin 
Trumbull four pounds ten shillings and six pence half penny, 
lawful money, whicli he had in his hands, belonging to the 
General Association, which money the Reverend Warham 
Williams was desired to Receive and Keep until called for by 
the Association, and accordingly it was committed to his 
Trust. Afterwards the same money was Voted to be given 
to the Reverend Isaac Lewis, late of Wilton, provided he 
shall be inclined to spend as many as five Sabbaths in 
preaching and administering Gospel Ordinances in any of 
the New-formed or forming Settlements that are destitute ; 
and that the Reverend D"" Bellamy receive the aforesaid 
money, and give the same to M^ Lewis, upon his complying 
with the beforementioned condition. 

The list of preaching Candidates brought in to this Asso- 
ciation from the several particular Associations is as 

followeth — viz : 

Litchfield County, 

Messieurs Adoniram Judson, Edmund Mills. 

New Haven. 
Messieurs Levi Lankton, Medad Rogers, Jonathan Maltby, 
Jabez H. Tomlison, Lemuel Tyler, Walter King, Samuel 
Goodricli, Jedidiah Morse, Pay son Williston, Thomas Holt. 

Hartford County, North Association, 
Messieurs Allen Olcott, Ebenezer Kingsbury. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 121 

South Association 

]\fessieurs Wait Cornwall, Ethan Osborn, David Higgins, 
Ozias Eells, Timothy Lankton, and Samuel Mills. 

Windham County 
Messieurs Samuel Austin, Stephen Williams, Taylor. 

New London County, East Association. 
Messieurs Foster, Wilder, Page, Pierce, Andrews, Ralph. 

West Association — None. 
Fairfield County — None. 

The Reverend Robert Ross was appointed by this General 
Association to preach the Conscio ad Clerum, the Day after 
the next Commencement at Yale College. 

Voted — That the next General Association be at the 
house of the Reverend John Smalley in Berlin. 

Voted that this Association will encourage the printing of 
the History which Mr. Trumbull is desired to compile, by 
assisting in procuring subscriptions, which it is to be hoped 
may be to an Amount not only sufficient to pay the printing, 
but also to afford some reward to M"" Trumbull for his labors 
and Service. 

At this Association it was proposed that the following 
Questions should be transmitted by the Delegates to their 
respective Associations for their Consideration, and that the 
delegates to the next General Association shoidd come pre- 
pared to offer their sentiments in the discussion of these 
Points. 

1. In what case the dissolution of the Marriage Relation, 
by what is called a Divorce, may properly and allowedly 
take place according to the Scriptures. 

2. Who was the person that appeared to Moses in the 
burning Bush. 

3. What proof of the Truth of divine Revelation can arise 
from Miracles said to be wrought in Attestation of it ? 



16 



Test Enoch Huntington, Scribe. 



122 records of the general association 

Notes. 
\ Jonathan Edwards Pastor New Haven North from 1769- 



1795. 



\ Noah Merwin Pastor Washington from 1785-1795. 



'. Nathan Fenn '' Berlin 



'' 1780-1799. 



1787. . 

At a General Association of the State of Connecticut con- 
vened at the House of the Reverened John Smalley in Berlin 
June 19"' 1787 

Present — 

John Smalley 

Benjamin Trumbull 

Levi Hart 

Theodore Hinsdale 

Samuel Camp ('.) 

Samuel John Mills 

Samuel Wales D. D. (^) 

Achilles Mansfield ('.) 

Nathan Perkins 

Moses Cook Welch (\) 

Joshua Johnson (\) 

Justus Mitchel and 

Frederick William Hotchkiss ('.) 



The Revd Mess.'-s -^ 



The Reverend John Smalley was chosen moderator and 
M»" Benjamin Trumbull was chosen Scribe. 

The Reverened Mr Lewis who was appointed to preach the 
Sermon before the Association being absent, M.^" Trumbull 
was appointed to preach, who opened the Association with 
prayer and a Sermon from Josh. 24 : 15 — " Choose you this 
day whom ye will serve." 

The Rev'^ Uriel Gridley came in and joined the Association. 

The Questions proposed the last General Association were 
discussed. Yoted that the l*"*^ Question respecting Divorce 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 123 

be deferred to tlie next General Association for further 
discussion. 

Voted also That the 3'' Question proposed the last Year 
respecting miracles be deferred to the next General Associa- 
tion for tlie same purpose. 

The Rev' D"" Bellamy returned to this Association by the 
hand of the Reverend Uriel Gridley, Four Pounds Ten 
Shillings and Six pence half Peimy, which the D"" had 
received of the General Association the last year. 

Voted tliat the next General Association be at the House 
of the Reverend Nathan Perkins in West Hartford tlie 
third Tuesday in June next. 

Voted that it be a standing rule That the preacher of the 
Conscio ad Olerum, at Yale College, the day after Commence- 
ment be appointed in that Association where the General 
Association shall set the preceding June. 

Voted that the Reverend John Smalley be appointed to 
preach the Sermon the day after the next Commencement. 

Voted that the Reverend Cyprian Strong be appointed as 
second in case of the Failure of the Reverend M"" Smalley. 

Voted That the Money returned by D"" Bellamy be com- 
mitted to the custody of Mr. Trumbull. 

The List of Candidates from the Several Counties brought 
into the Association is as followeth. 

Hartford County. 

North Association ( Joseph Kingsbury 
Messieurs ( John Ellsworth 
f Wait Cornwall 
South Association J Ethel Orsborn 
Messieurs ) David Higgins 
i^ Calvin White 



V 



Messieurs ■( 



124 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

New Haven County. 

f Jolin Robinson 
Lemuel Tyler 
Payson Williston 
Thomas Holt 

"^ Samuel Perkins 
David Hale 
Isaac Clinton 
Aaron Cook Collins. 

Fairfield County. 

Eastern Association None. 

Western Association None. 

New London County. 

Western Association None. 
( John Wilder 
Eastern Association J Christopher Page ' 

Messieurs > Aaron Woodworth and 
1^ Elijah Parish 

Windham County. 

( Stephen Williams 
Messieurs < John Taylor 

( Jonatlian Ellis 

Litchfield County. None. 

A true Record of the doings of the General Association. 

Test Benjamin Trumbull, Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Samuel Camp Pastor in Rido^ebury from 1769 to 1804. 

\ Samuel Wales " Yale College from 1782 to 1794. 

\ Achilles Mansfield Pastor in Clinton " 1779 " 1814. 

*. Moses Cook Welch " North Mansfield from 1784 

to 1824. 

^ Joshua Johnson Pastor in East Woodstock from 1780 to 
1790. 

\ Frederick W. Hotchkiss Pastor in Old Say brook from 
1783 to 1838. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 



125 



1788. 

At a meeting of the Oeiienil Association of tlie State of 
Connecticut at tlie House of the Rev^i Nathan Perkins in 
West Hartford June 17"' A. D. 1788 

Present 

Nathaniel Taylor 
John Willard 
Cotton M. Smith 
Joseph Huntington 
Cyprian Strong 
Thomas W. Bray 
Tlie Rev' Mess""" <J Jonathan Edwards 

Nathan Perkins 
Jonathan Murdock 
Benoni Upson ('.) 
Roswell Cook CO 
Zebulon Ely (I) 
William Lyman (*.) 

The Rev^ Nathaniel Taylor was chosen Moderator, and M"" 
Cyprian Strong Scribe. 

The Rev.*^ M"" Backus was appointed to preach the Conscio 
ad Clerum, at the Commencement in New Haven in Septem- 
ber next. 

The Rev*^ M"" Dwight and M"" Smith joined the Association. 

Tlie Rev^ Mess''s Jonathan Edwards, Timothy Dwight, 
Joseph Huntington and Cotton M. Smith were appointed a 
Committee to take into consideration the address of the 
Association of the ¥/estern District in New Haven County, 
respecting the State and Circumstances of the New Settle- 
ments in the States of Vermont and New York, with respect 
to the preaching of the Gospel, and the necessity of there 
being some measures taken to send suitable missionaries to 
preach the gospel, gather churches, and administer Gospel 
ordinances among them, and to report what is proper to be 
done thereon. 



126 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

The Association was opened with a sermon from Levit. 19 : 
17 preached by the Rev*^ M.J Willard. A request from the 
Association of Windham County was laid before this Associ- 
ation, requesting that some suitable Testimony might be 
borne against a sinful Omission in the late federal conven- 
tion, in not looking to God for direction, and of omitting the 
mention of the name of God in the Constitution they proposed 
to tlie People for their approbation. 

The Association after conversing largely upon it, laid it 
over till tomorrow morning for further consideration. 

The Association then resumed the Discussion of the first 
Question referred to them from the last General Association, 
viz: In what case a Dissolution of tlie marriage Relation, by 
what is called a Divorce may properly and allowably take 
place according to the Sci'ipture ? 

The Association adjourned till five o'Clock tomorrow 
morning. 

Met according to Adjournment. 

The Committee appointed yesterday made their report, 
which was voted aud directed to be printed under tlie direc- 
tion of M»" Perkins, under the Signature of the Moderator 
and Scribe of this Association. 

The Association resumed the discussion of the Question 
under consideration the last Evening relative to Divorces. 

The Association gave it as their opinion That Incontinency 
is the only justifiable reason for a divorce. 

Voted ^ that Doct.''s Goodrich, Edwards and Wales be a 
Committee to prepare a Draught of an Address and Petition 
to the General Assembly on the Subject of Divorces, aud lay 
it before this Association on their adjournment hereafter 
determined. 

On motion made by the Association in the western Dis- 
trict of New Haven County, the Association Voted that the 
Slave Trade be unjust, and that every justifiable measure 
ought to be taken to suppress it. 

Voted, also, that Docti's Goodrich, Edwards and Wales be 
a Committee to draw up an address and petition to the Gen- 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 127 

cral Assembly, that some effectual Laws may be made for the 
total abolition of tlie Slave Trade, to be laid before this body 
at their adjournment hereafter determined : 

Voted that the Address of Windham County be laid over 
to a future dav. 

A Scheme of an Union of the Presbyterians in America 
was presented to this Association, for their consideration, by 
the Association in the County of Fairfield. After deliberat- 
ing upon it, Voted tliat it be recommended to the Considera- 
tion and Approbation of each of the particular Associations 
in this State. 

At the request of the North Association in Hartford Coun- 
ty, representing the great, general, and increasing neglect 
there is in attending to the public Worship of God — the 
Association Voted Messieurs Timothy Dvvight & Benoni 
Upson be a Committee to make a draught of an Exhortation 
on the subject, to be publicly read, in the various Congrega- 
tions, through the State. 

The List of Candidates from the Several Counties, brought 
in to the Association is as foUoweth. 

Litchfield Association =Ednmnd Mills. 

r^ ,„ , -.^ ,, ( Ebenezer Kino'sbury 

Hartford North = 1 t , t^h T^ 

[ John Ellsworth 

( Wait Cornwell, Ethiel Orsborn 

Hartford South | William F. Miller, Calvin White 

( Elijah Gridley, Sylvester Sage. 

TTP,. ,, , . ,. ( Stephen Williams, John Taylor, 

Windham Association 1 ^ ,i ^^^^ tt ^ - ^ 

r Jonathan Ellis, Hendric Dow. 

New Haven Association 
John Robinson, Lemuel Tyler, Pay son Williston, Thomas 
Holt, Samuel Perkins, David Hale, Aaron Cook Collins, Levi 
Lankton, William Stone, Reuben Hitchcock, Ebenezer Fitch. 

New London Eastern Association — 
John Wilder, Christopher Page, Hezekiah Nath' Woodruff, 
Asaliel Huntin2:ton. 

Fairfield Eastern — None. 



128 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Fairfield Western — None. 
Middlesex Association = John Ely. 

Voted that the next General Association be at the House 
of the Rev. Thomas Brockway in Lebanon. 

The Committee to draw up an Address to the various 
Congregations on the Importance of a religious Attendance 
on the Duties of the Sabbath made their report which was 
accepted; and Doct'^ Edwards and Dwiglit were appointed 
to prepare the same for and forward it to the press with the 
signature of the moderator and Scribe of this Association. 

The following questions were read and Voted to be offered 
to each particular Association for discussion viz : 

I*'* Is it an Institution of the Gospel that baptized Children, 
as soon as they are capable of eating and behaving with 
decency, should partake of the Lord's Supper ? 

2^. Are there any absolute Promises of either temporal or 
spiritual good, made in Scripture to the Children of Believers? 

Voted that this Association be adjourned to the Day 
previous to Commencement, to meet in the Chapel at New 
Haven at 4 o' Clock in the Afternoon. 

The above passed and Voted by the Association — 

Test Cyprian Strong, Scribe. 

At a meeting of the General Association of the State of 
Connecticut, held by adjournment at the College Chapel in 
New Haven, Sept. 9"' A.D. 1788 

f Nathaniel Taylor 
John Willard 
Elizur Goodrich 
Cyprian Strong 

Present Rev." Mess.r^ { Thomas W. Bray 

Jonathan Edwards 
Jonathan Murdock 
Benoni Upson 
Zebulon Ely 
William Lyman 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 129 

The Association was opened with prayer offered by the 
moderator. 

The minutes of the last Association were read. Two 
Drauglits of an Address to the General Assembly were read 
to tlie Association — one by D^. Goodrich — the other by D^. 
Edwards, to both of which objections were offered. After 
much conversation relative to the mode of addressing or 
framing a memorial to the General Assembly, relative to 
Divorces it was voted — That said Memorial should be 
predicated in part on the opinion of the association as 
manifested in their June Session relative to Divorces, And 
X)octor Edwards, M^ Bray and Doctor D wight were chosen a 
Committee to prepare a Draught of such a Memorial to be 
laid before the Association for their Approbation. 

The Association was then adjourned till tomorrow imme- 
diately after the public Exercises of Commencement are fin- 
ished, to meet at the Room of M.'^ Fitch. 

The Association met according to adjournment. M»". Ross 
joined the Body. 

The committee appointed yesterday made a draught of a 
petition, &c., which was accepted, and one for the Total 
Abolition of the Slave Trade, connected with it. 

Doctors Edwards and Wales were appointed a committee 
to forward said Petition to the General Assembly at their 
Session in October next. 

Whereas in the minntes of the Doings of this Association 
in June last it is entered, that a Request was made from 
Windham Association, that some suitable Testimony might 
be borne <fec., it now appears that it was not made by said 
Association ; Voted that said Application be dismissed. 

The above- voted by Association, 

Test Cyprian Strong, Scribe. 

Notes. 

'. Benoni Upson Pastor in Kensington from 1779 to 1816. 
\ Roswell Cook ^' ^' Montville " 1784 to 1798. 
^ Zebulon Ely " "Lebanon " 1782 to 1824. 

\ William Lyman " " Millington " 1787 to 1823. 

17 



130 



EECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



1 789. 

At a Meeting of the General Association of the State of 
Connecticut at the house of the Rev<^ Thomas Brockway in 
Lebanon June 16*^ 1789 

Present 

Samuel Lockwood 
Elijah Lathrop 
Robert Ross 
Nathan Williams 
Benjamin Trumbull 
Timothy Stone 
Aaron Kinne 
Peter Starr 
Thomas Brockway 
Elijah Parsons 
Charles Backus ('.) 
William Seward 
Noah Merwin 
Wn» Lockwood ('.) 
Joseph Vaill (\) 
John Noyes (*.) 
Samuel Nott 
-Jason Atwater ('.) 



The Revd Messrs ^ 



The Rev/^ Samuel Lockwood was chosen Moderator, & 
W"» Lockwood Scribe. 

The Association was opened by prayer & a Sermon from 
1st Gorans ix. 27th preached by the Rev'^ M^ Stone. 

The Questions proposed by the General Association for the 
discussion of the particular Associations were by a majority 
of the particular Associations determined in the negative. 

The Association took into consideration and discussed 
those questions. 

The Association adjourned till half after five o'clock tomor- 
row Morning. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 131 

Met according to adjournment. The Association resumed 
tlie discussion of the Questions under consideration tlie hist 
evening. They were largely dehated by the members of the 
General Association. A large majority gave their Opinion 
in favor of the negative ; but in consideration that a few par- 
ticular Associations had not discussed the Questions they 
were referred to further Examination in the particular asso- 
ciations and the result of their enquiries to be laid before 
this Body for their opinion at their next meeting. 

The following Questions were read and Voted to be offerred 
to each particular Association for discussion, and return be 
made to the General Association at their next meeting, viz : 

I.''* Did the human Soul of Christ, exist before the Con- 
ception of his Body by the Virgin ? 

II.'^ What is the evidence from the Scriptures that there 
are three persons in the Deity eternally distinct from each 
other ? 

Voted that Copies of all Addresses, Draughts, &c made by 
the General Association be left with the Register of General 
Association. 

Voted that this Question be offered to the particular asso- 
ciations for consideration, and that returns be made to the 
General Association at their next meeting viz : Whether it 
be expedient that a minister be appointed by the General 
Association yearly to preach in the first Clmrch in Hartford 
on the afternoon of the Gen' Election day a Sermon in sup- 
port of some essential Point of Christianit}^ and that such 
sermon, written out in fair hand be lodged from year to year 
with the associational Register, for the purpose of Selection, 
for future Publication : That the preacher be not appointed 
by rotation from the several Associations, but from the State 
at large. 

Voted that the Rev*^" Timothy Stone be appointed to preach 
the Sermon the day after the next Commencement. 

Voted that the next General Association be at the House 
of the Rev^ Timothy Dwight D.D. 

Test W. LocKWOOD, Scribe. 



132 records of the general association 

Notes. 

'. Cliai-les Backus Pastor in Somers from 1774 to 1803. 

\ William Lockwood " Milford '' 1784 '' 1796. 

\ Joseph Vaill " Hadlyme '' 1780 " 1832. 

\ John Noyes " Weston '' 1786 " 1807. 

^ Jason Atwater " Branford " 1784 " 1794. 



The Rev.'^ Mess.'-s { 



1790. 

At a meeting of the General Association of Connecticut, 
at the House of the Rev.'' Timothy Dwight D.D. June 15^^^ 

1790 — 

Present 

Samuel Lockwood D.D. 
Nathaniel Taylor , 
Nathaniel Bartlett 
Robert Ross 
Judah Champion 
Elizur Goodrich D.D. 
Ebenezer Kellogg 
Benjamin Trumbull 
John Foot 
Aaron Church ('.) 
Rufus Hawley ('.) 
William Seward 
Timothy Dwight D.D. (\) 
Nathan Fenn 
Henry Ely 
Zebulon Ely 

The Rev.<^ Nathaniel Taylor was chosen Moderator, and 
M*" Benjamin Trumbull w^as chosen Scribe. 

The meeting was opened with prayer offered and a Sermon 
preached, by the Rev.'^ William Seward from Dan. ii: 44. 

Voted, That the two questions proposed to the particular 
Associations by the last General Association, for the present 
be dismissed. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 133 

A motion made by the delegates of the western Association 
of Fairfield county respecting a general nnion of the Congre- 
gational and Presbyterian churches throughout the United 
States of America, was taken into serious consideration and 
largely debated : On wliicli tlie following question was pro- 
posed, Whether in the opinion of this Association, any fur- 
ther degree of union between the churches of this State and 
their l)rethren of the Congregational and Presbyterian 
churches throughout the United States of America would be 
expedient and desirable ? Passed in the affirmative. 

Voted also, That in the opinion of this Association, this 
purpose might be effected in some good measure, by letters 
of correspondence respecting the state of the churches and 
of religion in the several States, and the different prevailing 
sects and the impostors that shall arise from time to time 
with authentic information of their characters, and such 
other matters as may be thought conducive to the general 
promotion of the gospel and the prosperity of tlie churches. 

The following gentlemen, D^ Goodrich, M^. Huntington 
of Middletown, D^ D wight and M^ Eliot were accordingly 
appointed a committee, to correspond with our brethren of 
the congregational and presbyterian churches in the United 
States, to com'municate to them this resolve, and to desire 
their opinion on the best method of accomplishing the valua- 
ble ends. 

Voted also that it is the opinion of this Association, that 
if the several Associations shall approve of this correspon- 
dence, that it be continued from year to year in such manner 
as shall hereafter be thought best. 

Voted that in future meetings of this Association, imme- 
diately after opening a docket shall be made out of whatever 
matters are to be considered by them. 

Whereas this Association sometime since desired M^ Ben- 
jamin Trumbull to write a religious history of the late Ameri- 
can revolution, and as he hath expressed his wishes that the 
Association would appoint a committee to inspect said history 
and report their opinion concerning it to this body at the 



134 



RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



next general Association, Voted the Rev.<^ jy^s Goodrich and 
D wight, and John Trumbull EsqJ of Hartford be a commit- 
tee for that purpose; and they are desired to inspect the 
papers which M"" Trumbull shall lay before them, and report 
as aforesaid. 

Voted That the Reverend Isaac Lewis preach the conscio 
at the next Commencement. 

Voted That the next General Association be at tlie House 
of the Reverend Noah Merwin of Washington. 

The following persons were returned as candidates in the 
several Counties viz : 

Hartford County 
North Association = M*" Ebenezer Kingsbury. 

^ Weight Cornwall 

Calvin White 

Sylvester Sage 

Gad Newel 

Joseph Camp 

Asahel Hooker 

Silas Churchil 
^ Isaac Porter 



Hartford South 
Association 

Mess'"s 



< 



New Haven County 

f Ebenezer Fitch 
Western | Daniel Crocker 
District <( Reuben Morse 
Messrs I David H. Williston 

V Aaron Woodward 



Eastern 

District 

Mess'"s. 



Aaron Cook Collins 
William Stone 
Caleb Johnson 
Isaac Maltby 
Oliver Dudley Cook 
Hezekiah Goodrich 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 135 

Fairfield County 
Eastern District — None. 

-p^. . \ William Brintnal Ripley 

UlStriCt; \ a 1 rij 

,, i oamuel btursJis 

Mess''s I * 

New London County. 
No returns from either district 

Windham County 
C Stephen Williams 

Messrs J ^endric Dow 

I Dyar Throop Hinkley 
l^ Woodworth 

Litchfield County 
M."" Chauncy Lee 

County of Middlesex 
None returned. 

Tolland County 

f Azel Backus 
Messrs < Freegrace Reynolds 
( Hyde 

Ti'ue minutes of the General Association 

Test Benjamin Trumbull Scribe. 

Notes. 

'. Aaron Church Pastor in E. Hartland from 1773 to 1815. 
'\ Rufus Hawley " W.Avon " 1769 to 1820. 

^ Timothy D wight " Greenfield '' 1783 to 1795. 



136 



RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



1 79 1 . 

At a meeting of the General Association of tlie State of 
Connecticut at the house of the Rev^ M.'' Merwin in Wash- 
ington June 21 : 1791, were 

Present 

Nathaniel Bartlett 
Cotton Mather Smith 
John Smalley 
David Brownson ('.) 
Samuel Camp 
John Foot 

Jonathan Edwards D. D. 
Rufus Hawley 
Elijah Parsons 
Timothy D wight D. D. 
Noah Merwin 
Samuel Stebbins (^) 
Jason Atwater 
Timothy Langdon (^) 
William Lyman 



Rev/^ Messjs <( 



Mr. Bartlett was chosen Moderator, and Doct. Edwards, 
Scribe. 

The Association was opened with prayer and a Sermon 
preached by tlie Rev^ Cotton Mather Smith from John vii : 17. 

An application was made to this Association from the first 
Church in Litchfield for advice respecting the case of 
Jedediah Strong Esq., who hath been divorced from his wife 
and the association gave their advice in a letter, a copy of 
which is on file. 

On the request of the Rev.^ M^ Trumbull of North Haven 
the committee appointed by the last General Association to 
inspect his history was reappointed to the same business. 

Voted that henceforward the General Association shall sit 
circularly in the several associations in the State, in the fol- 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 137 

lowing rotation; 1. The Western Association in New Haven 
County. 2. The Eastern Association in D". 3. The Soutli- 
ern Association in Hartford county. 4. Middlesex Associa- 
tion. 5. New London xVssociatiun. 6. Windham Associa- 
tion. 7. Tolland Association. 8. The Northern Association 
in Hartford county. 9. Litchfield Association. 10. The 
Western Association in Fairfield county. IL The Eastern 
Association in D". And that the preacher before the Gen- 
eral Association, be annually appointed, by the particular 
association, within the limits of which, the last preceding- 
session of the General Association, save one, shall have been 
holden. 

The Rev«^ Jeremiah Day was appointed to preach the Con- 
cio ad Clerum at the next Commencement. 

Voted that it be referred to the particular Associations, 
whether there shall be an alteration of the time of the session 
of the General Association, leaving it to the General Associ- 
ation to fix the time of the session, in case an alteration 
shall be made. 

Upon motion Voted That it be recommended to the several 
congregational ministers, in this State, and it is hereby 
recommended to them, to obtain an accurate account of the 
whole number of persons in their respective parishes ; and to 
note the number belonging to each religious denomination, 
and to make a written return thereof, to the next General 
Association. And it is further recommended to the several 
associations in this State, to carry this vote into effect, as 
well with respect to vacant parishes as to others. 

Resolved, That Doct"- Edwards, Doct^- D wight, M^. Trum- 
bull, Docf Goodrich, Doct'" Stiles, M'- Hinsdale and M"" Hart, 
or any three of them, be a committee of this association, to 
meet, at New Haven on the second Wednesday in September 
next, to confer. with a committee of the General Assembly of 
the Presbyterian church in the United States, concerning 
some proper mode of future correspondence between the 
churches of this State, and the said General Assembly, and 
to report to this association at the next session. 

18 



138 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Resolved that there be preached annually in the Brick 
meeting-house, at New Haven, on the day preceding the com- 
mencement, at 4 oclock P. M. a sermon on the Evidences of 
the Christian Religion, and that the preacher leave a fair 
copy of his Sermon with the Register of this Association, to 
be disposed of by the direction of the Association; and that 
the preacher be appointed by this Association annually out 
of the State at large. 

The Rev^J M"" Smalley was appointed to preach, agreeably 
to tlie above resolve, at the next commencement. 

The next General Association was appointed to be holden 
at the house of the Reverend M'" Leavenworth at Waterbury. 

Voted that it is hereby recommended to the several Asso- 
ciations to express their views concerning the most proper 
and feasible mode of sending missionaries to the new settle- 
ments, and to communicate them to the next General Asso- 
ciation. 

Voted also that the subject of the examination of candi- 
dates for the ministry in the learned languages, arts and 
Sciences, and ecclesiastical history, as well as theology, be 
referred to the consideration of the next General Association. 

The following is the list of Candidates returned to this 
Association. 

New Haven County 

Western Association Eastern Association. 

Ebenezer Fitch William Stone 

Reuben Moss Caleb Johnson 

David H. Williston Oliver D. Cook 

Aaron Woodward Hezekiah Goodrich 

Dan Bradley 
Giles H. Cowles 
Joel Bradley 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 139 

Hartford County. 
Southern Association Northern Association 

Wait Cornwell Ebenezer Kingsbury. 

Gad Newell 
Joseph Camp 
William Fowler Miller 
Asael Hooker 
Isaac Porter 
James Cassen Guernsey 
Israel Bard Woodward 
Stephen Fenn 

Fairfield County 

Western Association Eastern Association 

William Brintnal Ripley None. 

Samuel Sturges 

New London Association 
No return. 

Windham Association 
No return. 

Litchfield Association 
None. 

Tolland Association 
No return. 

Middlesex Association 
Jolm Eliot. 

Voted to be true minutes of the proceedings of the General 

Association. 

Test Jonathan Edwards Scribe 

Notes. 

\ David Brownson Pastor in Oxford 1764-1806. 
\ Samuel Stebbins " Simsbury 1777-1«06. 

^ Timothy Langdon " Danbury 1786-1801. 



140 



RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



1792. 

At meeting of the General Association of the State of Con- 
necticut, at the house of the Rev.^ Mark Leavenworth in 
Waterbury on the third. Tuesday of June A.D. 1792. Pres- 
ent Rev'' Messrs 



Judah Champion 
Simon Waterman 
Elijah Loth r op 
Nathan Williams 
Amos Fowler ('.) 
James Noyes (^) 
Mark Leavenworth 
Jonathan Edwards 
Theodore Hinsdale 
Nathaniel Gaylord ('.) 
Cyprian Strong 
William Robinson ('.) 
Elijah Parsons 
Achilles Mansfield 
Aaron Kinne 
David Hale (^) 
Zebulon Ely 
Elijah Gridley (I) 
Isaac Lewis 
Matthias Burnet ('.) 
David Ely 



Litchfield County. 

Tolland County. 

Eastern District 
New Haven County. 

Western District 

New Haven County 

Hartfoi'd North 

Association. 

Hartford South 

Association. 

Middlesex County. 

New London County 

Windham County 



Timothy Langdon 



Western District 
Fairfield County 

Eastern Association 
Fairfield County 

The Rev'^ M^ Leavenworth was chosen Moderator, and M"" 
Strong Scribe. 

The Association was opened by prayer, offered by the 
Rev.** M*" Lathrop. Returns were made" from several particu 
lar Associations, relative to several things referred to them, 
by the last General association. Minutes of the proceedings 
of the Convention of the committees of the Assembly of the 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 141 

Presbyterian churches in the United States and of the gen- 
eral Association of this State. A Letter from the Rev'* Ben- 
jamin Trumbull was received and read. Reports from the 
several jiarticular Associations as to the expediency of alter- 
ing the time for holding the (Jeneral association were made. 
Whereupon the Association Voted, That they would do 
nothing relative to making an alteration as to the time of 
holding the General Association. 

Attended public worship, When a Sermon was preached 
by the Rev'* M"" Lewis from John vii : 17. 

The Association entered upon the consideration of the 
recommendation of the last General Association relative to 
an enumeration of the inhabitants of parishes &c. From the 
returns made by the particular Associations it was Voted — 
Not to prosecute the measure any further. 

The most feasible and proper mode of sending mission- 
aries to the new settlements nextly came under consideration : 
and was referred to a committee to report tomorrow morning. 

Ml" Williams and Doct. Edwards were appointed the 
Committee. 

Adjourned till half after five o'clock tomorrow morning. 
Met according to adjournment. The association of the 
County of Middlesex having informed the general associa- 
tion that they had appointed the Rev.*^ M^ Vaille as a mis- 
sionary to the new settlements; although the proper season 
is passed for the other associations to adopt similar measures, 
yet the General association approved the laudable zeal of the 
association in Middlesex and recommended M"^ Vaille to the 
notice and attention of the inhabitants of the new settlements, 
as a regular and worthy minister of the gospel. 

The committee appointed Yesterday reported a petition to 
be presented to the General Assembly of this State, praying 
for a Brief etc. as appears from a copy of s^* petition on tile. 
The Rev^* Mess"^^ Jonathan Edwards D.D., Ezra Stiles D.D. 
and M^" Nathan Williams were appointed a Committee to pre- 
fer the above said petition to the General Assembly ; and 
also a Committee to join a Committee from the Assembly, 



142 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

in case said petition be granted, to receive and pay out such 
monies as may be collected. 

On the Question respecting the examination of Candidates 
for the Ministry in the Languages, Arts and Sciences as well 
as Theology, the Association finding, that several of the As- 
sociations are already in the practice, consider it as a com- 
mendable practice, and wish for uniformity in it — But agree 
that any diversity of sentiment or practice, on this point, 
shall not at all interrupt the harmony of our proceedings. 

On the request of the Rev^ M"" Trumbull of North Haven, 
the committee appointed by the last General Association, to 
inspect his history was reappointed to the same business. 

The following questions from New London Association, 
were proposed to the General Association Viz: 

1. Is it the duty of the Clmrches to require a Confession 
from Candidates for admission into Church fellowship, for 
scandalous sins previously committed ? 

Answered in the affirmative. 

2. Is it expedient that all confessions for public crimes 
should be made before the Congregation, or is it sufficient 
that they be made before the Church only ? 

Answer — Before the Congregation. 

Tlie Association then proceeded to consider, and did 
approve of the doings of the Committees from the Assembly 
of the Presbyterian churches in the United States, and the 
General Association of this State : — And Voted That a 
Committee of three be appointed to attend the next General 
Assembly of the Presbyterian Churches. — Rev<^ Mess'*s 
Matthias Burnet, Jonathan Edwards D. D. and Timothy 
D wight D. D. were chosen said committees. 

Voted That the former Committee of correspondence be 
continued for the present year. That the Revd Mess'^ 
Nathaniel Taylor, Nathan Williams, Thomas W. Bray, Ben- 
jamin Trumbull, Eliphalet Williams D.D., William Robin- 
son, Jolin Devotion, Levi Hart, Timothy Stone, Isaac Lewis 
and David Ely be a standing committee to certify the good 
qualifications of such preachers as travel from the limits of 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 143 

the cliurches in this association into the limits of the presby- 
terian Churches. 

The Rev*' Theodore Hinsdale was chosen preacher on the 
evidences of tlie Christian Religion on the day preceeding- the 
next public coniinencement at New Haven. 

Rev^ Jonathan Edwards was appointed pi-eacher of the 
Conseio ad Clerum, at the Chapel in New Haven the day after 
Commencement. 

Voted, That it be the duty of the preacher of the Sermon 
on the evidences of the Christian Religion, on the day pre- 
ceding the Commencement at New Haven, to convey a copy 
of said sermon to the Register of the general Association, 
before the setting of the next general Association, after the 
delivery of said sermon ; and that the Register transmit to 
the said general Association the copies of such sermons as 
are lodged with him. 

Voted That whereas a division hath taken place in the 
Association in Litchfield County known by the name of the 
Northern and Southern Association in Litchfield County, 
since the order of the Rotation of the general Association 
was fixed. That the General Association remove from Hart- 
ford north to Litchfield north Association, from thence to 
Litchfield south Association, then in the order stated June 
21^* 1891, and that the southern Association in Litchfield 
county provide a preacher for the next general Association. . 

Voted that the next general Association be holden at the 
house of the Rev^ M'" Foot in Cheshire. 

The following is a list of Candidates returned to this 
Association. 

JVew Haven County Western District. 

Ebenezer Fitch, David H. Williston, Aaron Woodward, 
Giles Cowles, Joel Bradley, William Brown, and Benjamin 
Wooster. 

New Haven Hast District 
Caleb Johnson, Hezekiah Goodrich. 



144 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Hartford South 

Gad Newell, Joseph Camp, Isaac Porter, James C. Guernsey, 
Stephen Fenn, and Asahel S. Norton. 

Hartford North 
Calvin Chapin. 

Fairfield County Western District 
Samuel Sturgis. 

FJastei'n District — None 
JVew London — None 

, Windham' 

Timothy Williams, Edmund Freeman, Dyer I. Hinkley, 

West, Rockwell, Spalding, Stephen Williams. 

Litchfield — None 

Tolland. 

Freegrace Reynolds, Uri Tracy, Silas Long Bingham, 

Lyon, John Taylor. 

Middlesex — None. 

Voted to be the minutes of the proceedings of the General 
Association. 

Cyprian Strong, Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Amos Fowler — Pastor in Guilford —1758-1800. 

\ James Noyes— " " Wallingford —1785-1832. 

I Nathaniel Gaylord " " W. Hartland — 1782-1823. 

\ William Robinson " " Southington —1780-1821. 

\ David Hale " ^'Lisbon —1790-1803. 

^ Elijah Gridley " ''Mansfield —1789-1796. 

\ Matthias Burnet " '' Nor walk —1785-1806. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 



145 



1793. 

At a meeting of the General Association of the State of 
Connecticut at the house of the Rev."' M' Foot, Cheshire June 
18,1793. 

Present 

Nathaniel Taylor 
John Willarci 
Cotton M. Smith 
Elizur Groodrich, D. D. 
Richard Ely 
Nathan Williams 
Noah Benedict 
Benjamin Trumbull 
Ammi R. Bobbins 
Isaac Lewis, D. D. 
Aaron Kinne 
John Foot 

Jonathan Edwards D.J). 
Nathan Strong 
David Ely 
Nathan Perkins 
William Robinson 
Benoni Upson 
Stephen Stebbins 
Walter King ('.) 
Samuel Goodrich (^) 
David Higgins (^) 
Elijah Gridley (\) 
William Storrs ('.) 



The Rev.^ Mess'^ 



< 



The Rev.'' Doct. Goodrich was chosen Moderator, and 
Jonathan Edwards was chosen Scribe. 

M' Perkins and D' Lewis were appointed to assist the 
scribe in preparing the Docket of the business proper to be 
done by this association and to report immediately after 
opening the association by divine service. 

19 



146 . RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Tlie association was opened with a sermon by the Rev*^ 
M'. Benedict from II Corinthians IV, 4, 5. 

The committee aforesaid reported a docket of the business 
to come before tlie Association. 

The Rev/^ Doct. Rogers of the Presbytery of New York, 
the Rev'^ M' Woodhull of the Presbytery of New Brunswick, 
and the Rev"^^ M' Woodworth of the Presbytery of Long 
Island produced proper credentials of their appointment by 
the General Assembly of the Presbyterian churches in 
America to represent that body in this association, and took 
their seats accordingly. 

The said delegates from the General Assembly of the 
presbyterian church, laid before this association some pro- 
ceedings of the General Assembly on the case of the Rev. 
A. C. Collins and the consideration of that business was 
voted to be taken up tomorrow morning at 8 o'clock. 

M' Perkins was appointed assistant Scribe. Doctor 
Dwiglit was appointed to preach the Sermon on the Evidence 
of Christianity on the day preceding the next commencement. 
Voted that henceforth it be a rule of this association that a 
second to the preacher on the evidence of Cliristianity be 
annually appointed. Doctor Edwards was appointed a second 
to the preacher on the evidence of Christianity for this year. 
Adjourned till tomorrow morning 6 o'clock. 

June 19t^« 6 o'clock A. M. met according to adjournment, 
and adjourned to the meeting house. 

Voted That the committee appointed for the inspection of 
M' TrumbulFs general History of the United States of Amer- 
ica be continued, and that it is the desire of this association, 
if on inspection, they shall esteem it worthy of public notice, 
they encourage him to exhibit proposals for its publication, 
with such joint recommendation of theirs, as they shall 
judge expedient. 

On motion from the association of the Western district of 
New Haven County, the following question was put, Whether 
a professed belief of the final salvation of all men be a cen- 
surable heresy ? which passed in the affirmative. 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 147 

Tlic ReV' T. W. Bray was appointed to ])rcacli the Conscio 
ad Clerum at the next Commencement. 

8 o'clock A. M. tlie Association took np the order of the 
day, and the minutes of the General Assembly directing 
their delegates to lay before this association all the proceed- 
ings and documents relating to the case of M"" A. C. Collins 
were read; and M' Collins requesting that he might be heard 
on the propriety of laying those documents before this asso- 
ciation, the question was put, Wliether the delegates be per- 
mitted to lay the said documents before this Association at 
at this time ? And it passed in the affirmative. 

After the hearing of the delegates, M"^ Ceilings had full 
opportunity to say all he wished to say. Then the question 
was put. Whether this association accept of the reference of 
the case of M' Collins to this association ? Which passed in 
the affirmative. M'" Foot, M' Robbins and D' Rodgers were 
appointed a committee to bring in a report of the proper 
measures to be adopted and pursued in the case of M"" 
Collins. 

On motion from the Windham association respecting 
measures for the promotion of Religion, as an expedient for 
this desirable end this association earnestly recommends- fre- 
quent religious conferences, and a spirit of abundant prayer- 
fulness, and that these conferences be under the immediate 
inspection of the respective pastors of the churches. 

The committee on the case of M' Collins brought in a 
report which was not accepted. Then on motion. Voted, 
That it is expedient that the case of M' Collins be tried at 
Salisbury. Also Voted that it shall be tried by a Consocia- 
tion. 3'y That it be tried and issued by the consociation of 
the northern district of Litchfield county. 4*'' That the said 
consociation is requested to meet at the meeting House in 
Salisbury for the trial of the case aforesaid on the third 
Tuesday of August next, and that a letter from this associa- 
tion be sent to the Moderator of the last Consociation in the 
northern district in Litchfield county communicating the 
proper information on this subject. The Scribe of this asso- 



148 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

ciation was directed to furnish M"" Collins and the appellants 
at Morristown with copies of the votes of this association 
relative to him, and that this be sufficient notice for their 
future direction in the case 

Voted, That the missionaries to the new settlements sliall 
spend the time of four months in their missions, and that 
they be allowed four dollars and an half per week, over and 
above four dollars for the supply of their pulpits during their 
absence. 

Voted, That whatever voluntary contributions shall be 
received by any of the missionaries, shall be accounted for 
by them to this association, or the committee appointed by 
the General Assembly. The missionaries appointed are 
Mess'^ David Huntington, Ammi R. Bobbins, Samuel J. 
Mills, Cotton M. Smith, 'Joseph Vail, Samuel Eells, Theodore 
Hinsdale, and Moses C. Welsli. 

Voted, Tliat president Stiles, Mess'"^ Nathan Williams and 
Benjamin Trumbull, Doctor Edwards and M' Thomas Wells 
Bray be a committee to draw up a plan of the missions and 
an address to the people of the new Settlements, and to fill 
up the places of those gentlemen, who may fail of fulfilling 
the missions to which they are appointed, and if the fund 
aft'ord it, to appoint new gentlemen on the mission, any three 
or more of them to act. 

On the Motion from Tolland association concerning a fund 
for ministers widows. Voted, That Mess'^ Nathan Perkins, 
Nathaniel Williams, and Nathan Strong be a committee to 
collect information relative to that suljject, and communicate 
it to the several associations of this State, that they may send 
their opinions to the next general association. 

The committee to draw up a plan of the missions, if they 
judge it expedient, are desired to publish at some convenient 
time before the first of May next, an account of the receipts 
and expenditures of the monies contributed, and a narrative 
of the missions. 

The moderator was requested to return the thanks of this 
association to the editors of the American preacher, for the 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 149 

twelve Books of tlie American preacher presented by tliom 
to this association, and it was Voted, that the said twelve 
Books be distributed one to every association. 

M"^ Taylor, Doctor Lewis, and M' Perkins were appointed 
to represent this association in tlie next General Assembly 
of the Presbyterian church. 

The same committee of correspondence and certification 
appointed last year, were continued for another year. 

Wlicreas the association of the County of Windham have 
manifested to this association their desire, that there may be 
a meeting of each consociation in this State at least once a 
year, who by their delegates shall form a general consociation 
of the State, to meet annually ; Voted that it be recommended 
to the several associations to consider of the matter and 
make report of their opinion to the next general association. 
The reasons urged for this proposition, are the advancement 
of union and mutual Christian intercourse, uniformity and 
energy in the discipline of Christ's church ; the promotion 
of mutual confidence between the clergy and layity, and 
uniformity in the mode of ecclesiastical processes in tlie 
several parts of the State. It is earnestl}^ requested that 
each association will consider this matter with their usual 
candor, and whether they adopt or reject, that they will 
assign their reasons for so doing. 

Voted, That the scribe be directed to inform M"" Smalley 
that this association regret that he has not complied with the 
vote of the last association in depositing his sermon on the 
evidence of Christianity with the Register, and expect that 
he forthwith comply with the said vote. 

The following is the List of the present Candidates for the 
ministry. 

New Haven Western destrict. 

Ebenezar Fitch, Aaron Woodward, Joel Bradley, Benjamin 
Wooster, Piatt Buffet, Joseph Goff, Edward Dow^ Gritlfin. 

New London Association 
John D. Perkins, Elijah Waterman. 



150 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Fairfield West Association 
James Richards 3"^. 

Windham Association. 

Timothy Williams, Dyer L. Hinkley, Lothrop Rockwell, 
Solomon Spaulding, Stephen Williams, Lynde Huntington. 

Litchfield Association. 
Nathan Eliot. 

Tolland Association 

Freegrace Reynolds, Uri Tracy, Silas Long Bingham, and 

Fields. 

New Haven Bast Association 
Caleb Johnson. 

Hartford Sonth Association. 

Gad Newel, Isaac Porter, Joseph Camp, James C. Guernsey, 
Stephen Fenn, Asahel S. Norton, Whitefield Cowles, Silas 
Churchill. 

The next General Association was appointed to meet at 
M' Upson's in Kensington. 
Voted to be true minutes. 

Test Jonathan Edwards Scribe. 

Notes. 

\ Walter King Pastor 2^ Norwich 1778-1811. 
\ Samuel Goodrich " Ridgefield 1786-1811. 
^. David Higgins Missionary to New Settlements. 
^ Elijah Gridley Pastor, Mansfield 1789-1796. 
\ William Storrs " Westford 1790-1824. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 



151 



1 794. 

At a meeting of the General Association of the State of 
Connecticut at the house of the Rev*' M/ Upson, Berlin, June 
17, 1794. 

Present — 

Nathan Williams 
Simon Waterman 
Levi Hart 
John Marsh ('.) 
Thomas W. Bray 
Samuel Eells 
Dr. Jonathan Edwards 
D^ Timothy Dwight 
David Ely 

Alexander Gillet (*'.) 
Achilles Mansfield 
Nathan Perkins 
David Huntington ('.) 
David TuUar (\) 
Nehemiah Prudden ('.) 
Benoni Upson 
Enoch Pond (^) 
Henry Ely 
Zebulon Ely 
Jonathan Miller ('.) 
Walter King 
Samuel Goodrich 
Standley Griswold ('.) 
D^ Alexander M^Whorter 
Jedediah Chapman. 



The Rev.*' Mess" <[ 



These two last gentlemen of the Presbytery of N. York, 
produced proper credentials of their appointment by the 
general Assembly of the Presbyterian church in America, to 
represent that body in this Association, and took their seats 
accordingly. 



152 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

The Rev'^ Nathan Williams was chosen Moderator and D' 
Jonathan Edwards and Nathan Perkins Scribes. The Asso- 
ciation was opened with prayer by the moderator. 

The Rev'^ Levi Hart, John Marsh and Thomas W. Bray 
were appointed a committee together with the scribes, to pre- 
pare the Docket of the business proper to be done by this 
Association. 

The Association voted that it be the duty of the moderator 
always to open the session of the Association in the morning, 
and to close it in the evening with prayer ; also that when- 
ever the moderator wishes to deliver his sentiments on any 
subject which sliall be in debate before this association, he 
shall quit the chair, and the scribe shall take it, during the 
time that the moderator shall be speaking. 

Adjourned for public worship, and the sermon was preached 
by B' Edwards from Phil II : 13. 

Met according to adjournment. The Rev'' Levi Hart was 
appointed a second, as preacher on the Evidences of Chris- 
tianity, at New Haven on the day before the next 
commencement. 

The committee of Correspondence, D' Goodrich, Enoch 
Huntington, D' Dwight, and Andrew Eliot was continued. 

The Rev'' Nathan Williams, Thomas W. Bray, Benjamin 
Trumbull, D' Eliphalet Williams, William Robinson, John 
Devotion, Levi Hart, Timothy Stone, D' Isaac Lewis, David 
Ely, Simon Waterman and Ammi R. Robbins were appointed 
the committee to give certificates of the good character and 
qualifications of preachers who travel into the bounds of the 
Presbyterian church. 

The proceedings of the several Associations concerning a 
general Consociation were exhibited, and M' Hart, D' Dwight, 
M'' Bray, M"" David Ely, and M' Marsh were appointed a com- 
mittee to make a draught of a plan of a General Consocia- 
tion, and to make report tomorrow morning. 

Adjourned till tomorrow morning 8 o'clock. 

Met according to adjournment. 

Voted That henceforward it be a rule of this Association, 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 153 

that tlie Roll of the Names of the members be called at the 
beginning of every session. 

Yoted that the Committee aj)pointed by the legislature of 
the State to receive the contributions of the several Ecclesi- 
astical Societies in the State render at every General Asso- 
ciation, an account of their receipts and expenditures of the 
money contributed in the preceding year : and that the same 
committee for superintending the Missions to the New Settle- 
ments be reappointed to the same services to which tliey were 
appointed the last year. 

The committee appointed by the legislature of the State to 
receive and disburse the contributions for the support of the 
missions to the New Settlements, gave in their accounts of 
the receipts and disbursements of the monies contributed for 
the last year. 

M'" Cyprian Strong was appointed to preach the Conscio at 
the next Commencement. 

The committee to make a draught of a plan of a general 
Consociation brought in their report, which, with the emen- 
dations was as follows — 

I. That there be, within each associational district in this 
State, an annual convention of the ministers and of the 
Churches by their delegate or delegates ; who shall appoint, 
each two ministers and two delegates, to meet in general 
convention and shall transact any other business, as to each 
district convention shall appear expedient. 

II. That in every vote, all the members of said General 
Convention shall have an equal voice. 

III. That the general Convention transact the same kinds 
of business, which are now transacted by the general associ- 
ation ; and such other business as shall be referred to them 
by the district Conventions. 

IV. That the place of tlieir first meeting be the city of 
Hartford, and the time, the Monday preceding the general 
Election, at 4 o'clock in the afternoon. 

V. That s'd General Convention exist seven years from 
its first meeting, and that if two thirds of the district con- 

30 



154 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

veutions shall then chuse that its form be altered, or its 
existence terminated, it shall be so altered or terminated ; 
otherwise it shall continue in its former state. 

Voted — that the aforesaid plan of district and general 
conventions be submitted to the several associations in tliis 
State and to tlie churches of their districts for their consid- 
eration and their proceedings tliereon be returned to this 
general association at their next meeting. 

Voted that D'. Goodricli, D' D wight and John Trumbull 
Esqr. be continued as the committee of this association to 
revise and recommend as they shall judge best the Rev'^ Ben- 
jamin Trumbull's proposed history agreeably to former votes 
of this association. 

Voted that four months be the term of the missions to the 
new settlements; that eight missionaries be employed, and 
that nine dollars a week be the compensation for tlieir ser- 
vices and the supply of their pulpits. And the Rev"* Mess'^ 
Theodore Hinsdale, Aaron Kinne, Moses C. Welch, Jeremiah 
Day, Asahel Hooker, Azel Backus, Cyprian Strong, William 
Lyman were appointed missionaries to the New settlements 
and the committee to superintend the missions were empow- 
ered, if tliey cannot obtain settled ministers to employ at 
their discretion Candidates in the missions, at four dollars 
and an half per week for their service. 

A Letter from the Presbytery of New York, containing the 
sentence of deposition from the holy ministry pronounced on 
Aaron Cook Collins with a request that it be communicated 
to the respective associations, was laid before the General 
Association. 

The motion for a widow's fund made last year with the 
papers thereunto relating, w^as laid over to the next meeting 
of the general Association. 

The motion of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian 
church, that the delegates from that Assembly to this associ- 
ation, and the delegates from this association to that assem- 
bly be empowered to vote in all questions decided in those 
bodies respectively, was taken into consideration, and after 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 155 

discussion ; the General Association voted a compliance with 
the said proposal. 

A Letter from the Committee of correspondence of tlie 
convention of the ministers of Massacliusctts was read, and 
tlie committee of correspondence of this association, was 
directed to return an answer. 

M' Perkins a delegate from this association to the general 
Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, gave an account of the 
proceedings of that Assembly in their last sessions. 

The committee to superintend the missions was directed to 
make enquiry concerning the money contributed before the 
war for missions to the New Settlements, said to have been 
deposited in the hands of D'" Goodrich and others, and to 
put the same into the fund lately contributed for the same 
purpose. 

M.' Hart, M"" Z. Ely, and Mr. Marsh were directed to make 
a draught of a Letter of thanks to the governor for the 
Patronao'e and countenance which he has iriven to the 
charitable design of sending missionaries to the new 
settlements. 

Adjourned 'till tomorrow morning 7 o'clock. 

Met according to adjournment. 

The committee appointed to make a draught of a Letter of 
thanks to governor Huntington ; made their report, and the 
letter after being corrected was accepted. 

Voted that it is expected by the Association that the com- 
mittee for superintending the missions, charge all necessary 
expenses attending their service. 

Voted that M"" Benjamin Wooster be paid for his service in 
the New settlement at the rate of four dollars and an half a 
week, beginning his wages in his first tour at the time of his 
beginning his service. 

The Rev'' Nathan Strong, Benjamin Trumbull and Nathan 
Williams were appointed to represent this association in the 
next General Assembly of the Presbyterian cliurches in the 
United States. 

The next General Association was appointed at the house 
of the Rev'' M' Hotchkiss of Saybrook. 



156 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

The following is the List of the present Candidates for the 
Gospel Ministry. 

New London Association — John D. Perkins, Elijah Water- 
man, Daniel Hall. 

New Haven West Association — Benjamin Wooster, Amos 
Bassett, Piatt Buffet, Joseph Goff, Edward Dorr Griffin, 
Maltbj Gelston. 

Fairfield west Association — James Richards, Jonathan L. 
Pomeroy, Jonathan Bartlet, David Hill. 

Windham Association — Stephen Williams, Timothy Wil- 
liams, Solomon Spalding, M"^ Witter, Lynde Huntington. 

Tolland Association — Free Grace Reynolds, John L. 
Skinner, Masfield Steel, Silas Long Bingham, Uri Tracy, M"" 
Fields. 

Hartford South Association — Joseph Camp, James C. 
Guernsey, Silas Churchill, M' Pinio, M' Shepherd, Joseph 
Washborn, M'" Porter. Litchfield South Association — 
Nathan Eliot. New Haven east Association — Caleb 
Johnson. 

The Association voted to make the following recommenda- 
tions to the several Associations, viz. This Association con- 
sidering the importance of Christianity to mankind, the 
danger to which youth are at the present time exposed, and 
the duty incumbent on themselves and their brethren to pro- 
mote the influence of Religion among youth especially, and 
generally among those of all ages — do resolve, 

I. That it be recommended to the several Associations in 
this State, to return annually to this body an account of the 
state of their congregations, of the degree of attention to 
religion existing in them and of their moral situation in gen- 
eral, in such a manner as they shall judge most conducive to 
the welfare of Christianity. 

II. That it be recommended to the ministers of the sev- 
eral Associations to collect the young people of their respect- 
ive congregations, for the purpose of giving them stated pri- 
vate instruction in the evidences, doctrines and duties of 
Christianity, and to consider this so far as it may be conven- 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 157 

iently done as an important branch of tlieir ministerial 
Labours. 

III. That the meetings for ])rayer and religious conference 
recommended by this body, to the ministers and churches of 
this State, be renewedly urged upon them ; tliis association 
being strongly impressed with a sense of the usefuhiess of 
such meetings not only by the nature of the subject, but also 
by the happy consequences Nvhich have resulted from them, 
where they have been statedly holden. 

IV. That it be recommended to the several Associations 
to take as effectual care as may be, that students in Theolo- 
gy be employed in their theological education, a sufficient 
time, and furnished with sufficient advantages, to enable 
them, to become well acquainted with the doctrines and evi- 
dences of Christianity, to instruct others, and to defend those 
doctrines and support the authority of the Scriptures against 
unbelievers. 

V. And whereas it cannot be expected, that individuals in 
this country can generall}^ furnish themselves with a sufficient 
supply of those books, which contain many kinds of very im- 
portant information in theology and ecclesiastical history, 
information highly necessary in itself and not easily obtained 
without the possession of such books ; it is therefore recom- 
mended to the several Associations to institute association al, 
circulating Libraries, to consist especially of the most impor- 
tant books relating to the deistical controversy, and to in- 
crease them by yearly contributions to such a size as to 
answer effectually the important purposes here specified. 

VI. That it be recommended to the particular associations 
yearly to inform this bod}^, of the manner and degree in 
which they comply with the recommendations of tliis body 
to them, and in cases of non compliance to send forward 
their reasons. 

Voted to be true minutes of the proceedings of the General 
Association — 

Test Jonathan Edwards, Scribe. 



158 



EECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 





Notes. 




'. John Marsh — 


Pastor - 


— Wethersfield 


1774 1816 


2. Alexander Gillett- 


u 


Torrington 


1792 1826 


^. David Huntington 


ii 


Salem 


1775 1796 


\ David Fuller 


(.(. 


Milford 


— 1784-1802 


^ Nehimiah Prudden 


u 


Enfield 


1782 1815 


\ Enoch Fond 


cc 


Ashford 


1789 1807 


'. Jonathan Miller 


u 


Burlington 


— 1783-1831 


*. Standley Griswold 


u 


New Milford - 


— 1790-1802 



1795. 

At a General Association of the State of Connecticut, at 
the house of the Rev'' Achilles Mansfield, Killingworth June 
16^1^: 1795 Present 

Cotton M. Smith 

Josiah Whitney ('.) 

Elizur Goodrich D.D. 

John Devotion (".) 

Nathan Williams D.D. 

Levi Hart 

Elisha Rexford 

Aaron Church 

Thomas W. Bray 

Jonathan Edwards D.D. 

Andrew Lee (^) 

Achilles Mansfield 
The Rev'^ Mess""' ^ Matthias Bennet 

William Lockwood 

Nathan Fenn 

Lemuel Tyler (*.) 

Amas Chase ('.) 

Stephen W. Stebbins 

Amos Basset (\) 

Abel Flint (^) 

Calvin Chapin (^) 

Asahel Hooker (^) 

William W. Tennant D.D. 

Ashbel Green D.D. 
i John Gam mil. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 159 

The last three Gentlemen were delegated to this Associa- 
tion, by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian C''^. 

Doctor Goodrich was chosen Moderator, and Doctor Ed- 
wards and M' Fenn were chosen Scribes. — The Association 
w^as opened with prayer by the Moderator. The Association 
by vote, requested Doctoi'S Tennant and Green to pieach a 
sermon each; one of them this and tlie other tomorrow even- 
ing, as they shall agree between themselves. 

Mess"" Bray, Heart and Basset were appointed, with tlie 
Scribes, to make out a Docket of the business to be transacted 
by this Association. — The sermon was preached by Doctor 
Goodrich from 2 Peter iii : 14. 

The report of the several Associations concerning a gen- 
eral convention, to be constituted in this State, according to 
the recommendation of the general Association & particular 
conventions in the Associational districts, w^ere made, by 
which it appeared, that the majority of the Associations think 
it not expedient, that the said measures be at present 
adopted. 

A motion was made from Wimlham Association, that a 
particular place be fixed upon, for the stated meeting of the 
general Association: and it was referred to the consideration 
of the particular Associations, who are requested to send 
their sense on this subject, to the next general Association. 

Reports were brought in from the several associations, of 
their proceedings on the recommendation of the last general 
Association, concerning preaching on the evidences of Chris- 
tianity — instructing youth — the state of their congrega- 
tions and associational Libraries; which reports contained 
many things agreeable to the wislies and recommendation of 
the general Association : and this Association wish the sev- 
eral particular Associations still to prosecute such measures, 
relative to those subjects, as their discretion and respective 
circumstances shall point out. 

The question concerning seasons of })rayer for the i-evival 
of religion, came under consideration; and after some delib- 
eration was for the present deferred; and Dr. Williams, Dr. 



160 • RECORDS OF THE GENERAL- ASSOCIATION 

Green and Mr. Heart were appointed a committee to bring in 
a draft on that subject. 

Tlie accounts of tlie Committee to receive and disburse tlie 
contributions for the new settlements were exhiJDited, and 
M' Lee, M'" Chapin and M"" Tyler were appointed a committee 
to inspect them and make report. Voted that five mis- 
sionaries to the new settlements be appointed for the ensuing 
year; and that Nine Dollars a week for the supply of their 
pulpits and for their services be paid to settled ministers, 
who shall go upon this service: and that pay to Candidates 

be six Dollars a week. The Rev^ Mess'"" Kinne, A. R. 

Robbins, Knapp, Hart, and Justin Mitchel were appointed 

missionaries for this year. Dr. Williams, Dr. Dana, Dr. 

Edwards, Mr. Trumbull & Thomas W. Bray were appointed 
a committee to draw up a plan of the missions and an address 
to the people of the new settlements, and to fill up the places 
of those gentlemen who may fail of fulfilling their missions 
to which they are appointed : and three or more of them to 
act. 

The Rev'' M"" Trumbull, sent a Letter of resignation of his 
office as Register of this Association, which was accepted : 
and the Association voted, that their thanks be returned by 
the scribe, for his services as Register of this Association. 

The Rev'^ Cyprian Strong was appointed Register of the 
General Association. 

A Letter from his Excellency Governor Huntington in 
Answer to a Letter from this Association at their last session 

was received and read with mucli satisfaction. A Letter 

from the sub-committee of correspondence of the convention 
of Massachusetts was received and read. 

Dr. Green laid before this Association, certain papers, 
relating to the establishment of a Seminary of learning in 
the State of Kentucky, and a recommendation of that design, 
by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church. This 
Association having duly considered the case, hereby declare 
their full confidence in those representations, and full con- 
currence with the recommendation of the general Assembly. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 161 

Certain communications were received from the committee 
of the Convention of Ministers of the Commonwealth of 
Massachusetts; and Dr. Tennant, Mr. Bray, and Mr. Whit- 
ney were appointed to make report on those communications. 

Voted Tliat tlie Moderator of tliis Association at any 
session, shall remain to be the Moderator, until the subse- 
quent session. 

Voted ; That the Money contributed before the war and 
sent by M"" Trumbull, by the hand of Dr. Edw^ards to this 
Association, be received by Mr. Bray, at its present value; 
and that M'' Bray, witli the advice of the Committee to 
superintend the missions be impowered to settle, in the best 
manner with the heirs of the late Rev'* Warham Williams, 
with respect to the Money contributed for missions before 
the war, and now in the hands of the heirs of said M"" 
Williams, and the said money be applied by him, to the sup- 
port of the missionaries sent or to be sent into the new 
settlements. 

The committee formerly appointed to revise M'". Trumbull's 
history, was continued. 

The committee appointed as above to report on the 
accounts of the Committee to receive & disburse the con- 
tributions for the new settlements, made report, which was 
accepted by the general Association, and ordered to be 
recorded by the register. 

Mess'"'* Cotton Mather Smith, W"» Lockwood and Nathan 
Fenn, were appointed delegates to the next General Assem- 
bly of the Presbyterian Church. — The same committee to 
certify the good character of traveling preachers, was 
reappointed. — M"" Mansfield was appointed to preach the 
Conscio ad Glerum at the next Commencement, Dr. Edwards 
was appointed to preach the next sermon on the evidences 
of Christianity and Mr. Hart was appointed the second. 
Dr. Goodrich, Dr. Lewis and Mr. Burnet were appointed a 
Committee to look up the papers relative to the Convention 
formerly holden, between the Churches in Connecticut, and 
21 



162 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

the presbyterian Church ; and to lay the same before tliis 
association at their next session. 

Voted That Mr. Cotton M. Smith be allowed his wages as 
a missionary, during a week that he was sick on his last 
mission : and that the committee to superintend missions 
are impowered to make such compensation as they shall 
judge reasonable, to missionaries that may be taken sick, or 
be disabled during their mission. 

The motion for widows funds laid over to this meeting, 
was further laid over to the meeting of the next General 
Association. The List of Candidates is as followeth, 

Western Association of New Haven County. 
Benjamin Wooster, Piatt Buffet and Maltby Gelston. 

Eastern Association of the same County. 
Caleb Johnson, Roger Harrison and Timothy M. Cooley. 

Association in Windham County. 

Stephen Williams, Timothy Williams, Ezra Witter, 
Solomon Spalding, Amasa Porter, Lynde Huntington, Joseph 
Russell, Daniel Dow. 

Association in Tolland County. 

Silas L. Brigham, Marshfield Steel, Fields, Seth 

Willis ton. 

Association in New London County. 
John D. Perkins, Daniel Hall. 

South Association in Hartford County. 
Silas Churchill, Ebenezer Porter, Beza Pineo. 

Western District in Fairfield County. 
Jonathan Bartlit, Hill. 



OF THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 163 

As Dr. Edwards has closed his accounts as receiver and 
disburser of the money contributed for the missions to the 
new settlements, and his accounts liave been examined and 
approved by the committee of this Association, therefore, 
the moderator is requested to give a certificate of this to 
Dr. Edwards. 

The report of the committee concerning seasons of prayer 
was brouglit in, debated and finally adopted, and is on file. 
Voted that the communications from the convention of 
Massachusetts be committed to the Committee of correspond- 
ence, & that they return a proper Answer. 

The next general Association was appointed to be at the 
Rev"^ Mr. Strong's at Norwich. 

Voted to be true minutes of the General Association. 

Test Jonathan Edwards 
Nathan Fenn 

Notes. 



Scribes 



Josiah Whitney — Pastor — Pomfret ■ —1756-1813. 

John Devotion " Westbrook —1757-1802. 

Andrew Lee " Hanover —1768-1830. 

Lemuel Tyler " Preston —1789-1808. 

Amos Chase " Morris —1787-1814. 

Amos Bassett " Hebron —1794-1824. 

Abel Flint " Hartford 2^' —1791-1824. 

Calvin Chapin " Rocky Hill — 1794-1850. 

Asahel Hooker " Goshen — 1791-1810. 



164 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



1 796. 

At. a general Association of the State of Connecticut, at 
the house of the Rev/' M' Strong in Norwich 21''^ June 1796. 

Were Present 

James Cogswell D. D. ('.) 

Nathan'. Taylor 

Josiah Whitney 

Natlian Williams D. D. 

Cyprian Strong 

Jonathan Edwards J). D. 
\ David Ely 
The ReV ( Matthias Burnet 
) Joseph Strong 

David Tuller 

Abraham Fowler ('.) 

Samuel Mills ('.) 

Ozias Eells (\) 

Lemuel Tyler 

Stephen W. Stebbins 

Amos Chase 

James Noyes 

John Willard 

William Lyman 

Henry A. Rowland (^) 

Publius y. Booge (^) 

Lynde Huntington (^) 

Dan' Smith CO 

John M^Night D. D. 

Azel Roe. 

The two last gentlemen were delegated to this Association, 
by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church. 

Dr. Williams was appointed Moderator — D' Edwards 
Scribe. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 165 

The Association was opened by prayer, and a Sermon was 
preached, by the Rev.'' Cyprian Strong, from Acts 17 : 11 — 
Mr. Rowland was chosen assistant Scribe. Mess''' Wliitney, 
C. Strong & Fuller, with the Scribes, were appointed a Com- 
mittee to draw up a docket of the business proper to be done 
by this Association. 

Whereas it was, by the last general Association, referred 
to the associations of this State, to express their opinion to 
this general Association, concerning the expediency of having 
a fixed place of session for the general ''association — And, 
whereas many of the associations have sent only verbal 
answers to the question — therefore, resolved, that the same 
question be again referred, and it is hereby referred to the 
several associations : and they are requested to return their 
answers in writing, to the next gen' Association, together 
with the reasons of their decisions. Also resolved, gener- 
ally, that whenever any matter is referred from the general 
Association to the particular Associations, unless the result 
of any Association be returned in writing, it shall not be 
considered as any result at all. 

The Committee of correspondence, viz: D.' D wight, I) J 
Goodrich, M."^ Huntington and M.' Eliot were reappointed. 

M.' Benedict of Plainfield was appointed to preach the 
Concio ad Clerum. 

The Committee to certify the good character & standing 
of travelling preachers, viz : M.' Taylor, D.' N. Williams, M."" 
Bray, M." Trumbull, D.' E. Williams, M.' Robinson, M'. Devo- 
tion, M.' Hart, M.' Stone, D." Lewds, M.' David Ely, were re- 
appointed. 

M.' Burnet, M." Whitney & M.' C. Strong were appointed a 
Committee to inspect the accounts of those gentlemen who 
hold the money contributed for the missions to the new 
settlements. 

D.' N. Williams, D.r Dana, D.-^ Edwards, M.'^ Trumbull & 
M"" T. W. Bray were re-appointed a Committee to superintend 
the missions to the new settlements. 



166 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Voted — That the sum remaining of the contributions for 
the missions to the new settlements be nearly expended this 
year. 

Resolved generally, That this Association think it advisable 
that settled ministers be sent on the mission. 

Resolved : That the delegates from this Association to the 
General Assembly of the presbyterian C''' shall always make 
a written report to the next General Association of the fulfill- 
ment of their appointment ; and of such things in particular 
as concern tlie Churches represented in this Association. 

M' Morgan was appointed to a Mission to the new settle- 
ments for four months ; And M' Joel Benedict, M' Nott, M" 
Rexford, M^. Yaile, M"- Mitchel, M."* M^Clure, M"^ William 
Lyman and M.*" Prudden, were appointed each to a mission of 
two months : provided those who are appointed for two 
months shall consent to compute the time and expense of 
their journey to the new settlements and not those of their 
return from thence. 

The compensation to the missionaries was voted, as was 
voted the last year. 

M' Tyler was added to the Committee to superintend the 
mission to the new settlements. 

On motion that the general association would devise some 
measures to perpetuate the missions to the new settlements, 
resolved, that as there is now a considerable sum remaining 
of the late contributions, the proposal be laid over for further 
consideration to the next general Association. 

The proposal of a Widows' fund was laid over to the next 
general association. 

M' Charles Backus was appointed second to the preacher 
on the Evidences of Christianity, the day previous to the next 
commencement. 

List of Candidates. 

Western Association in New Haven County. 

Benjamin Wooster, Maltby Gelston, Abraham Allyn. 
Eastern Association in D° Roger Harrison. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 167 

Windliam Association. 

Steplien Williams, Timotliy Williams, Ezra Witter, Solomoii, 
Spalding, Amasa Porter. 

Tolland Association. 
Marshfield Steel, Zach. More, Joseph Field, Setli Williston. 

New London Association. 
John D. Perkins, Daniel Hall, Eliphalct Nott. 

Hartford South. 
Ebenezer Porter, Beza Pineo. 

Western District Fairfield County. 
Hall. 

M.'^ Tuller, M."" Stebbins, and M.* Hart were appointed dele- 
gates to the next general Assembly of the presbyterian 
Church. 

The next general Association was appointed to meet at the 
House of the Rev.'^ M."^ Waterman in Windham on the third 
tuesday of June next. 

Voted — That it be recommended to the several Associa- 
tions to take measures to procure regular bills of Mortality 
in the several societies and towns of this State; and that 
these bills be annually sent to the general Association. 

Voted That the delegates from the Eastern Association of 
New Haven County are hereby directed to inform M."" Bray, 
that the association expects, that he do what he can toward 
procuring the money contributed before the war, and 
supposed to be in the hands of the heirs of the late Rev.'' 
Warham Williams, and make report to the next general 
Association. 

The committee to superintend the missions are directed to 
publish a further narrative of the missions at furtherest at 
the close of this year. 

D."" Goodrich, D."^ Lewis, & MJ Burnet are continued as a 



168 



RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 



Committee to look up the papers relating to the Convention 
holden before the war, between the Churches in this State 
and the presbyterian Church. 

Voted to be true minutes of the proceedings of the general 
association . 

Jonathan Edwards 



Test! 



Henry A. Rowland 



Scribes. 



Notes. 



Naugatuck 



James Cooroswell — Pastor — Scotland 

Abraham Fowler — 

Samuel Mills — 

Ozias Eells 

Henry A. Roland 

Publius V. Booge 

Lynde Huntington 

Daniel Smith 



— 1772-1804. 

— 1785-1799. 
— Cliester — 1786-1814. 

Barkhamsted 1784-1813. 
Windsor 1^^-1790-1835. 
Winchester —1791-1800. 
Brandford —1795-1804. 
Stamford —1793-1842. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT, 169 

1797. 

At a General Association of the State of Connecticut at 
tlie bouse of the Rev'^ M"^ Waterman of Windham June 20"' 
1797 

Were Present 

Rev.'' Mess."* Josiali Whitney, 

Nathaniel Williams, D. D., 
John Smalley, 
Simon Waterman, 
Levi Hart, 
Hezekiali Ripley, 
Samuel J. Mills, 
John Foot, 

Jonathan Edwards, D. D., 
Achilles Mansfield, 
Nathan Perkins, 
Joseph Strong, 
David Tuller, 
Abraham Fowler, 
Fredric W'" Hotchkiss, 
Timothy Langdon, 
Uriel Gridley, ('.) 
Lynde Huntington, 
Daniel Waldo, CO 
Giles H. Cowles, CO 
Daniel Smith, 
Elijah Waterman, CO 
Ichabod L. Skinner, ('.) 
James F. Armstrong, 
Samuel Miller, and 
James Richards. 

The three last mentioned gentlemen were delegated to this 
general Association, by the General Assembly of the Presby- 
terian Church in the United States. 

22 



170 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

M' Smalley was appointed Moderator, and D"" Edwards, 
Scribe. The general Association was opened with prayer by 
the Moderator. The Rev^ Mess'' Whitney, Williams, Hart 
and Miller were appointed a Committee to draw up a docket 
of the business. 

The sermon was preached by the Rev^ Achilles Mansfield, 
from Psalm CXI verse 10. The Rev'^ Charles Backus was 
appointed to preach the sermon on the eyidences of Chris- 
tianity, on the day preceeding the next Commencement ; and 
the Rev^ Nathan Strong was appointed his second. 

The Rev'^ M"" Brock way was appointed to preach the next 
concio ad Clerum. 

Mr. Smith was appointed assistant scribe. The subject of 
the widow's fund was laid over to the next general association. 

The committee of correspondence viz : Dj Dwight, Dj Good- 
rich, M."" Enoch Huntington, and M."" Eliot were reappointed. 

Tlie committee to certify the good character and standing 
of travelling preachers, viz : M.^ Taylor, D.^ N. Williams, M.^ 
Bray, D.' Trumbull, D.'" E. Williams, Mj Robinson, M.-- Devo- 
tion, M.r Hart, M."" E. Waterman, Dj Lewis, M/ David Ely 
were reappointed. 

M."" Whitney, M."" Hart and M.'" Perkins, were appointed a 
committee, to inspect the accounts of those gentlemen who 
hold the money contributed for the missions to the new 
settlements. 

D'- N. Williams, D' Dana, D' Edwards, D' Trumbull, and 
M' T. W. Bray were reappointed a committee to superintend 
the Missions to the new settlements. 

Messrs Joseph Strong, Cyprian Strong, & Timothy Lang- 
don were appointed delegates, to the General Assembly of 
the Presbyterian Church to meet in Philadelphia on the third 
Thursday of May next. 

The particular Associations having made their returns on 
the question, whether the session of the general association 
sliould be circular, it appeared, that a majority of said asso- 
ciations were in favor of the present circular mode; and 
therefore, Voted, That the general Association shall, in 
future, as heretofore, sit circularly in the several associations. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 171 

The next general association was appointed to be hoi den 
at M"" Bassetts' in Hebron on the third Tuesday of June 
A.D. 1798. 

M"" Strong, M"" Foot, and M"" E. Waterman were appointed 
a committee to bring in a report concerning the Bills of 
mortality. 

D"*^ Goodrich and Lewis and M"" Burnett were continued a 
committee to look up the papers relating to the convention 
which was holden before the war. 

List of Candidates. 

New Haven West Association — Abraham Allyn, John 
Sherman and Isaac James. 

New Haven East D" — Roger Harrison, & Erastus Ripley. 

Windham Association — Stephen Williams, Timothy Wil- 
liams, Ezra Witter, Solomon Spalding, & Amasa Porter. 

New London Association — John D. Perkins, Daniel Hall, 
& Eliphalet Nott. 

Tolland Association — Marshfield Steel, Zach'' More, Joseph 
Fields. 

Western District of Fairfield County — David Hill, Zacha- 
riah Lewis and Isaac Lewis. 

The missionaries to the new settlements appointed for this 
year are, M"" Solomon Morgan, David Huntington, M"" P. V. 
Booge, M"" Alexander Gillet, M"" Simon Waterman, and M^ 
Jesse Townsend. 

The committee appointed to bring in a report, concerning 
the bills of mortality, brought in the following : 

Whereas the general Association holden at Norwich June 
21: 1796 — did recommend to the several Associations, to 
take measures to procure regular bills of mortality in the 
several Societies and Towns in this State, and these bills be 
annually sent to the General Association — And as the said 
recommendation is not found sufficiently explicit Voted, that 
the proposed bills shall exliibit the number of deaths under 
one year, from one year to five, from five to ten, and then by 
tens to the greatest age — also the sex of the person and the 
particular disease, with which they die — said Bills com- 



172 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

mencing on the first day of January 1799 and annually after- 
wards. 

M"" Tullar brought in a report of his executing his commis- 
sion as a delegate to the General Assembly of the Presbyte- 
rian Church M"" Hart was added to the Committee to 

superintend the missions to the nev\^ settlements — The com- 
pensation of the missionaries was voted to be the same as 
last year; yet if the committee to superintend the mission, 
find it necessary to add any thing to the sum granted for 
supplying the pulpits of the missionaries they were empowered 
to do it. 

Hesse's Hart, Strong and Miller were appointed to draught 
an address to the several Associations on the subject of a 
missionary Society. 

Voted: That the Moderator of every general Association, 
if he be present at the meeting of the next General Associa- 
tion, shall continue Moderator, until a new Moderator shall 
have been appoiiitcd : if he sliall not be present, tlie scribe of 
the former General Association, and if he shall not be pres- 
ent the oldest member present shall be Moderator until a 
new Moderator shall have been appointed. 

Voted also That all communications from the General 
Association to the particular Associations shall be attested 
by the Scribe — M' Huntington was appointed a Scribe for 
this purpose. 

M'" Mansfield, M' Mills, D^ Edwards, & M^ E. Atwater were 
appointed, to bring in a report concerning M"" Barlow's altera- 
tion of D"" Watts' Psalms; and they exhibited the following: 
Whereas in some of D"" Watts's translation of the Psalms, 
there are expressions confined to particular places or coun- 
tries ; and whereas D"* Watts did not translate some of 
David's Psalms, therefore resolved by this General Associa- 
tion, that application be made to President D wight, that he 
would alter those passages which are confined as aforesaid : 
and translate those Psalms which D"" Watts did not translate ; 
and that a committee of this body be appointed to review, 
both the alteration, and translations, which president Dwight 
shall make, and to correct or approve the same. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 173 

D"" N. Williams, M"" Sinalley, and M"" Perkins were appoint- 
ed a committee to act agreeably to said resolve. 

A motion being made tbat a compensation be made to the 
committee, to snperintend the missions, it was laid over to 
next year. 

The committee appointed to inspect the accounts of the 
committee to superintend the missions reported, that they 
had inspected the said accounts and found them correct. 

The committee appointed to draught an address to the 
several associations on the subject of a Missionary Society, 
brought in one which was accepted & is on file.* And M"" 
Hart, M'" Joseph Strong and M"" King were appointed a com- 
mittee to make and publish such extracts and summaries as 
shall be sufficient to give a general view of the subject. 

Drs. D wight, Dana and Trumbull were appointed a commit- 
tee of correspondence on the subject of a Missionary Society. 

Voted : That the committee of publication be directed to 
m^ake such extracts and summaries from existing publications 
as will be sufficient to give a general view of the measures 
adopted in Great Britain and America, for the spread of the 
gospel in pagan countries, and publish 2000 Copies of their 
compilation with the address of this body, and distribute 1700 
of them to some member or members of the particular asso- 
ciations in tlie State ; so that each minister may have an 
equal number at or before the second Wednesday in Septem- 
ber next, that they may circulate through the associations, 
and by them be distributed to their congregations, in such 
manner and proportion as they shall judge proper : and the 
members of this association engage to pay to the committee 
their respective proportions of their constituents ; by the first 
day of December next ; and the committee are directed to 
reserve 300 copies for the committee of correspondence with 
missionary societies, to distribute to the friends of Zion in 
this country and in Europe. 

True Minutes 

( Jonathan Edwards ) 

Test ) r\ u ( Scribes 

( Daniel Smith ) 



* No such report was among the papers on file as returned to the Register. 



174 records op the general association 

Notes. " 

\ Uriel Gridley — Pastor — Watertown —1784-1820. 

\ Daniel Waldo— " — W. Siiffield —1792-1809. 

I Giles H. Cowles— " —Bristol —1792-1810. 

\ Elijah Waterman— " —Windham —1794-1805. 
\ Ichabod L. Skinner— " —No. Coventry — 1794-1798. 

1798. 

At a meeting of the general Association of the State of 
Connecticut on the 19*'' of' June 1798 in Hebron at the 
House of the Reverend Amos Bassett. 

Present 
Rev.'' Messieurs Benjamin Trumbull D.D. 
Simon Waterman 
Levi Hart 
John Marsh 
Hezekiah Ripley 
Peter Starr 
John Foot 
Andrew Lee 
Jonathan Edwards D.D. 
Nathan Strong 
Nathan Perkins 
William Lockwood 
Joshua Williams 
Samuel Blatchford 
Zebulon Ely 
Justus Mitchel 
David Selden 
Samuel Nott 
Amos Bassett 
David L. Bebee 
John Eliot 
Joshua Leonard 
Joel West 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 175 

Delegates from the General Assembly of the Presbyterian 
Church — 

Samuel Blair D.D. 

Nathaniel Irwin 
Joseph Clark. 

The Rev'^ Benjamin Trumble was chosen Moderator and 
the Rev' Hesse's Nathan Perkins and John Marsh were chosen 
Scribes. 

The meeting was opened with prayer by the Rev. Moderator. 

The Sermon was preached by the Rev. Samuel Nott from 
2 Cor. 4 : 5. 

The Rev. Mess'^^ Hart, EdAvards and Strong were appointed 
a committee to draw up a Docket of the business. 

The communications from the district Associations respect- 
ing a Missionary Society were read, and the Rev. Messi's 
Hart, Edwards, Strong and Irwin were appointed a com- 
mittee to take into view these communications, and report to 
the Association. 

The Rev. Messi's Ripley and Lockwood were appointed a 
Committee to examine the accounts of the Committee of 
Missionary publications. 

To prevent impositions on Ministers and Churches respect- 
ing those who may come from Europe to tliese United States 
under the character of preachers of the gospel — Voted That 
a Committee be appointed to write to the Committee of 
Minist-ers, belonging to the Board in London, known by the 
title of the Fund, or to any known Board of ministers in 
Scotland, to request them to give Credentials to all Ministers, 
whom they can recommend for piety and good character, 
desirous of coming to this Country : and the Committee 
request those with whom tliey correspond, to circulate this 
as extensively as they may judge meet — Voted That 
Dr. Timothy Dwight, Dr. James Dana, and Dr. Benjamin 
Trumbull, together with the Rev. Samuel Blatchford be the 
Committee for this purpose. 

No report being made by tlie Committee to look up the 
papers relating to tlie Convention before the war, Dr. Lewis 



176 KECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

and Mr. Burnett were continued, and Rev. Andrew Eliot and 
Hezekiah Ripley were added ; and Dr. Blair and Mr. Clark 
were requested to consult the records of the Synod of New 
York and Philadelphia respecting said Convention, and to 
forward to Dr. Lewis of Horsneck anything that may thi;ow 
light on the subject. 

The Committee of Missions refused any compensation, 
being willing to do the service gratuitously. 

Dr. Williams, Dr. Dana, Dr. Edwards, Dr. Trumbull, Levi 
Hart and Mr. Bray were reappointed a Committee to 
superintend the missions to the new settlements. 

The Committee of Missions reported that of the fund there 
remained 796 dollars, inclusive of what is now due to the 
Rev. Andrew Judson, for his late services, to be expended in 
carrying on the benevolent design of advancing the interest 
of religion in our new settlements in the borders of the 
wilderness — 

And, the Rev. Mess'^ Andrew Judson, Amzi Lewis, Seth 
Williston, Walter King, Zebulon Ely and Amos Bassett were 
appointed Missionaries for the present year. 

The Committee to certify the good character and standing 
of travelling preachers, viz: Mr. Taylor, Dr. Nathan 
Williams, Mr. Bray, Dr. Trumbull, Dr. E. Williams, Mr. 
Robinson, Mr. E. Waterman, Dr. Lewis, Mr. David Ely were 
reappointed- 

The Committee of correspondence with the Massachusetts 
Convention of Ministers viz : Dr. Dwight, Mr. Enoch 
Huntington, and Mr. Eliot were reappointed, and Mr. Marsh 
was added. 

The Rev.'' Mess'^s Nathan Perkins, Samuel Blatchford, and 
John Eliot, were appointed delegates to the General Assem- 
bly of the Presbyterian Church, to meet at Winchester in 
Virginia, on the third Thursday of May next. 

The Rev'' Cyprian Strong was appointed to preach on the 
Evidences of Christianity, the day before Commencement, 
and the Rev'' Dr. Trumbull second. 

The Rev'^ Royal Tyler was chosen to preach the concio 
ad clerum. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 177 

Voted. That this Association will attempt to form a plan 
for a Missionary Society — The ReV' Levi Hart, Dr. Edwards, 
Nathan Strong and Nathaniel Irw in were appointed a Com- 
mittee to report concerning the formation of a Missionary 
Society — The report was accepted, and the same Committee 
was appointed to draught a Constitution of a ^lissionary 
Society ; and the Constitution after due consideration was 
adopted and is as follows — 

" The General Association of the State of Connecticut, 
impressed with the obligations on all the friends of Chris- 
tianity, to pi"opagate a knowledge of its gracious and holy 
Doctrines ; Also encouraged by the late zealous exertions for 
this End, in sundry cliristian Bodies, can not but hope, the 
time is near, in w'hich God will spread his truth thro' the 
whole Earth. — They also consider it as a thing of great 
importance, that some charitable assistance be extended to 
new Christian Settlements, in various parts of the United 
States. The salvation of these souls is precious. The 
happiness of the rising generation, and the Order and 
Stability of civil Government are the most effectually 
advanced, by tlie Diffusion of religious and moral sentiments, 
through the. preaching of the gospel. In deep feeling of 
these truths, having by prayer sought the direction of God, 
in the fear of his great Name, they have adopted the follow- 
ing Constitution of a Missionary Society. 

I. This Society shall be know^n by the name of the Mis- 
sionary Society of Connecticut. 

II. The General Association of the State of Connecticut 
shall be the Missionary Society. 

III. The General Association shall annually, by Ballot, ap- 
point twelve Trustees, Avhereof six shall be Clergymen, and 
six shall be brethren of our Churches, wdio shall conduct the 
business of the Society in the manner hereafter described. 

IV. The objects of the Society shall be, to christianize 
the Heathen in North America, and to support and })romote 
Christian Knowledge in the new settlements within the 
United States : and both shall be pursued as circumstances 

23 



178 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

shall point out : and as the Trustees, under the superinten- 
dence of the General Association shall direct. 

V. The General Association and the Trustees shall adopt 
such measures from time to time, for raising of Funds, as 
they shall judge to be expedient. 

VI. The Trustees shall have power to apply the Funds of 
the Society, according to their Discretion, in all cases in 
which they shall not be limited, by the General Association, 
or by the Donors. They shall correspond with other Mis- 
sionary Societies — shall have power to appoint and dismiss 
Missionaries — to pay them, and generally to transact all 
business necessary to attain the Ends of the Society : and 
shall be paid their necessary expenses : but shall receive 
nothing for their services. 

YII. The Trustees shall annually appoint a Secretary, who 
shall Keep a fair account of their proceedings, and a Chair- 
man, who with four other Trustees shall be a Quorum to 
transact Business; — or, if tlie stated Chairman shall not be 
present, any seven of the Trustees shall be a Quorum. 

YIII. The Chairman shall have power to call a meeting of 
the Trustees at his discretion, by Letters left with them, or 
at the houses of their usual residence; and it. shall be his 
duty to call such meetings, whenever requested by two Trus- 
tees, and in case of the death of the Cliairman, or of his 
Absence from the State, any two Trustees are hereby em- 
powered to call a Meeting. 

IX. The General Association shall annually appoint a 
Treasurer, an Auditor of Accounts : and the Treasurer shall 
exhibit both to the General Association and to the Trustees, 
the State of the Treasury, whenever he shall be called on for 
that Purpose. 

X. The Trustees shall annually exhibit to the General 
Association a particular account of the Missionaries employed 
by them — of the places to which they are sent — of the 
apparent success of the Missions — of the state of the Funds 
— of their receipts and expenditures and of whatever, relat- 
ing to this Institution the General Association shall require. 

XL The Trustees and the officers of tliis Societv shall 



OF THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 179 

enter on their respective offices on the first Wednesday of 
September annually, and shall continue in office for one year. 

XII. The Trustees shall hold their first meeting at tlie 
State-House in Hartford, on the first Wednesday in Septem- 
ber next, at 11 o'clock A. M., and in every year thereafter, 
they shall meet at the same time and place unless otherwise 
ordered by the General Association. 

XIII. If on experience it sliall be found necessary to alter 
this Constitution, an alteration may be made, by the General 
Association at their stated Session ; but not without having 
been drawn up in writing and lying under consideration for 
one year-; nor unless at least two thirds of all the members 
of the General Association shall adopt the said alteration. 

The last mentioned Committee were appointed to draw up 
a Memorial to the Governor and Council, which was reported 
and accepted — and is on file. 

Voted, That I)^ Benjamin Trumbull and the Rev. Nathan 
Strong, or either of them be a Committee to present the 
Memorial and Petition of this Association to the Governor 
and Council. 

Tlie Reverend Messrs Lockwood, Clark, Lee and Blatchford 
were appointed a Committee to draw up and report an address 
to the Inhabitants of the State of Connecticut. The following- 
address was reported and accepted. See the Files. 

Voted That the following Civilians and Clergymen be 

appointed Trustees of the Missionary Society. 

Lieut. Governor Treadwell Esq"". 

T^ ■ / Jonathan Brace Esq'". 
Hon "^ i y 

) Heman Swift Esq^ 

Roger Newbury Esq"". 

John Davenport Esq^ 

Joshua Lathrop. 

Dr. Trumbull 

Dr. Edwards 

Levi Hart 

Rev. Mess''s \ Nathan Strong 

Charles Backus 

Cyprian Strong 



180 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Andrew Kingsbury Esq^. was appointed Treasurer and 
John Porter Esq^ Auditor of the Missionary Society. 

Voted Tliat the Constitution of the Missionary Society, 
the address and the Subscription papers be printed to the 
number of 500 copies ; — and the Rev'^ Nathan Strong was 
chosen to take the Charge of tlie printing of the same and 
that the expense of printing be paid by the Committee of 
Missions. 

In Session of the General Association, the subject of 
means to defray the expense of Our Delegates to the General 
Assembly of the presbyterian Churches, being under consid- 
eration. Resolved that the following persons, Lieut. Governor 
Tread well, Hon. Jonath. Brace, Rev.'^ Nathan Strong, and 
Nathan Perkins be a Committee to devise and report means 
to our next Session, adequate to the support of the delegates, 
which is so necessary for union and interests of the Churches. 

Resolved That the Rev.'' Seth Williston be desired, to 
make as full a Statement as he is able, of the deficieiices of 
support while laboi'ing as a Missionary in the Western settle- 
ments since June 1'^ 1797, to the Committee of Missions; 
and that the Committee reward him as they reward other 
missionaries. 

A^oted that the Rev'' Mess'^ James Dana, Nathan Williams 
and Thomas Wells Bray, submit all their accounts of the 
monies lately contributed for Missions to the New settlements 
to be audited and settled by John Porter Esq^ Auditor of 
accounts of the Missionary Society of Connecticut; and that 
they pay over the balances which are in their hands into the 
hands of Andrew Kingsbury Esq'"., Treasurer of said Society, 
on the first Wednesday of September next. 

Resolved by the General Association, That the several 
associations in this State consider the following Question-— 
Whether Deacons in our Churches ought to be ordained by 
prayer & imposition of hands: and that they send their 
decision of the question to the next general association with 
their reasons. 

Voted, That the next General Association in June 3'' 



OP THE COLONY OP CONNECTICUT. 181 

Tuesday 179t> be liolden at Hartford at tlie House of tlie 
Rev''. Nathan Strong. 

Passed in General Association. 

Test Nathan Perkins, Scribe. 



'? 



Notes. 

Samuel Blatchford — Pastor — Bridgeport — 1797-1804. 
David Selden — " Middle Haddam — 1785-1825. 

David D. Beel)e— '' Woodbridge —1791-1800. 

Josliua Leonard " Ellington —1791-1798. 

Joel West " East Hampton —1792-1825. 



1799. 

At a meeting of the General Association of the State of 
Connecticut, holden at Hartford the 3'^ Tuesday in June 
1799 — 

The following Gentlemen were present having Certificates 
of delegation from their several district Associations. 

Toland — Nathan Williams D. D. and Charles Backus. 
Hartford N — Nehemiah Prudden & William F. Miller. 
Hartford S — John Smalley — William Robinson. 
Windham C- — Thomas Brock way, M. C. Welch 
Fairfield E — Sam' Blatchford —John Ely 
Fairfield W — Justus Mitchel — Andrew Elliot. 
Middlesex — E. Parsons — L. Rockwell. 
Litchfield N — Jonathan Edwards D. D. Sam' J. Mills 
Litchfield S — Simon Waterman. 
New London — Joseph Sti-ong — Levi Hart. 
N. Haven — Simou Backus — John Elliot. 
N. Haven W — David Tuller — Bazalell Pineo. 
From the i John Rogers D. D. 
Gen.' Assembly S Robert Finley. 

The Rev.'' Levi Hart was chosen Moderator. 
Samuel Blatchford, Scribe 
John Elliot Assist.^ Scribe 



182 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

(^ Jonathan Edwards D. D. 
Committee appointed J John Smalley 
to prepare the Docket | Simon Waterman 

1^ Robert Finley 

The Association was opened by Prayer by the Moderator. 



Article 1 



St 



The Report of the Committee appointed to present a Peti- 
tion to tlie Grovernor and Council, to obtain contributions for 
the support of Missions among the new settlements and the 
Heathen — Resolved that the Rev'^ Nathan Strong be pre- 
pared to present a written report on the subject tomorrow 



mornmg. 



Article 2. 



The Report of the Trustees of the missionar}^ Society — 
Receipts & expenditures — missions — State of the Fund — 
Correspondence &c. 

A motion was made by the Rev'^ Dr. Edwards for the 
appropriation of one half of the funds on hand for the 
express purpose of evangelizing the Heathen. After con- 
sultation on this motion the Association adjourned at 5 
o'clock for divine service — the hour of meeting was appointed 
at 7 o'clock tomorrow morning — A prayer by the Moderator, 
concluded the associational business of the day. 

In the evening a Sermon was delivered by the Rev'^ Moses 
C. Welch from Mark 16 : 20. 

Wednesday June 19*^ Prayer by. the Moderator. Met 
according to appointment — The subject of Dr. Edwards's 
motion was resumed. 

Voted by the Missionary Society of Connecticut that one 
half the monies contributed for the support of missions on 
the first sabbath in May last, if one half of the monies be 
yet unappropriated, by the Trustees of the missionary society, 
or if more than one half of those monies be already appro- 
priated by the trustees, that, then, the whole of those monies 
now unappropriated ought to be applied by the Trustees to 
the support of missionaries among the heathen. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 183 

In conformity to the Resolve passed yesterday, the Rev'' 
Nathan Strong presented a report of the measures taken by 
the Committee to obtain an act for contributions toward the 
support of Missions. No 1. 

Report of the delegates to the General Assembly. 

The delegates appointed by the General Association were 
unable from various causes to attend — in consequence of 
which at the request of the Association the Rcv'^ Mr. Finley 
gave an interesting account of the doings of the General 
Assembly, at their session, together with the most pleasing 
intelligence received by said Body of the success of the gos- 
pel, in several places, and the outpouring of the Divine Spirit. 

By a Ballot for the Trustees of the Missionary Society, for 
tlie ensueing year, the following Gentlemen were chosen. 

The Hon. Jolm Tread well Esqr. 
Hon. Heman Swift Esq."^ 
Hon. Roger Newberry Esq. 
Hon. Jonathan Brace Esq."" 
Hon. John Davenport Esq.' 
Doct/ Joshua. Lathrop. 



Rev."^ Benjamin Trumbull 
Rev.** Nathan Strong 
Rev.*^ Cyprian Strong 
Rev.*^ Charles Backus 
Rev."* Levi Hart 
Rev."* Nathan WilHams D.D. 



By a Ballot for a Treasurer and an Auditor of the accounts 
of the Missionary Society were chosen 

Andrew Kingsbury Esq^ Treasurer 
John Porter Esq^ Auditor of accounts — 

A claim of compensation for missionary services being 
made by the Rev'^ Moses C. Welch, on the part of the ReV^ 

Andrew Judson the Rev'^ Mess. *■« Andrew Elliot & E. 

Parsons were appointed a Committee to confer with Mr. 
Welch and bring in a report on the Subject. 

On motion, Voted, that the members of the present disso- 
ciation, do nominate a member in each of their respective 

associations to be a Committee of Certification 

The following gentlemen were chosen. 

Rev. Dr Lewis Western district of Fairfield County 
David Ely Eastern do. 

Dr. Trumbull New Haven West 
Mr. Eells East 



184 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

John Devotion, Middlesex 
Joseph Strong, New London 
Moses C. Welch, Windham 
Dr. Williams, Tolland 
Nathan Perkins, Hartford North 

William Robinson, South 

Samuel G. Mills, Litchfield North 
Dan Huntington, South 

Means to defray the expenses of the delegates to the Gen- 
eral Assembly Voted, that a Committee be appointed to 

bring in a report on the subject — viz : Rev. Charles Backus, 
Dr. Edwards, Mr. Smalley. 

Several papers relative to the missionary society and busi- 
ness were read. 

Dr. Edwards, at liis request, was discharged from the Com- 
mittee of ways and means for the support of delegates & Dr. 
N. Williams was substituted in liis room. 

The Committee for the alteration of the Psalm Book made 
report, which gave rise to a lengthy discussion. 

The Committee of ways and means for the defraying of 
the expenses of the delegates to the (General Assembly of the 

Presbyterian Church reported in the following words 

'• Tlie General Association being deeply impressed with the 
importance of maintaining a free intercourse with the pres- 
byterian Churches in the U. S., and the difficulties which at- 
tend a representation in tlie General Assembly, while our 
members are left to defray the expenses of their journey, 
which is frequently the length of several hundred miles ; 
Resolved, That it be recommended to the Several Associa- 
tions in this State, to lay an annual tax of fifty cents, on each 
of their members, to be paid to a receiver to be appointed in 
each Association, and by said receivers to the Treasurer to 
be annually appointed by the General Association ; said sum 
to be paid by the third Tuesday of June ; and the Treasurer 
is to render an account annually, to the General Association, 
of his receipts and disbursements. The General Associa- 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 185 

tion also conceive it exi)edient, that tlie coinpensation allowed 
to each of the tliree delegates be fixed at eight cents ]).'■ Mile. 

on motion tlie above report was acce[)ted. The Committee 

in the case of Mr. Judson made i'e|)ort No. 2. on which 

it was resolved, that the General Association find there is 
due to the Rev. Andrew Judson, the sum of eighty eiglit Dol- 
lars, for missionary services, performed previous to the for- 
mation of the missionary society. 

On motion Voted, That the following proposed amendment, 
in the Constitution of the missionary Society of the State of 
Connecticut, do lie on the table for consideration — That for 
the words " Who with four of the Trustees shall be a quorum " 
in Article 7"' of the Constitution be substituted the words, 
" who with five of the Trustees, shall be a quorum." 

Bills of mortality were presented from several associations. 

On motion adjourned at }4 past 6 o'clock P. M. to y2 past 
7 tomorrow morning. Concluded with prayer. 

June 20^'' The Association met according to adjournment 
— Began with prayer. — On motion Voted, That the Trustees 
of the missionary society be requested to pay the sum of 
eighty eight Dollars to the Rev. Andrew Judson, found due 
to him, according to a previous vote of this Body. 

The following Gentlemen were appointed delegates to the 
next General Assembly of the presbyterian Church. The 
Rev.^ Nathan Perkins, Dr. Lewis, Dr. Edwards. 

The subject of Dr. Dwight's alterations of and additions to 
Dr. Watts' version of the Psalms was resumed — on motion 
Voted, That whereas a Committee appointed by the General 
Association, two years since to apply to Doctor Dwight, to 
alter Dr. Watts' version of the Psalms, have reported, that 
Dr. Dwight has made alterations &c — Therefore Voted, That 
this Association examine the alterations, and additions made 
by Dr. Dwight. 

The general Association proceeded to examine the altera- 
tions and additions to Dr. Watts' version of the Psalms 
of David, made by the Rev'\ Dr. Dwight, and finding it incon- 
venient to finish the business in their collective capacity, 
24 



186 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Voted, That it be committed to a Committee, consisting of 
four Ministers appointed by this Body, to be joined by a com- 
mittee, composed of an equal number, to be appointed by the 
General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of the U. S., 
which joint committee shall be empowered to complete the 
examination, and to recommend it, if they think proper, to 

the general use of the clmrchcs. Voted, also. That if the 

General Assembly shall appoint a committee for the above 
purpose, tliat this joint committee shall meet at Stamford on 
tlie second Tuesday of June in the year 1800 at 3 o'clock 
P. M. a majority of which shall be a quorum. 

By a ballot were chosen, tlie Rev/^ John Smalley, Dr. Lewis, 
Cyprian Strong & Joseph Strong to be a Committee on the 
part of the General Association, in compliance with the pre- 
ceding vote. 

The opinions of the several associations, on the question 
referred to them, for their consideration — "Whether it be 
duty to ordain Deacons by prayer and Imposition of liands " 
were called foi' ; and it appearing, that several associations 
had not sent forward written answers to the above question, 
a decision on this subject was postponed, and the several 
associations who are deficient, were desired to send their 
opinions in writing, with their reasons to the next General 
Association and the Register is desired to send the returns 
now made from several associations to the next General 
Association. 

Voted, That the Rev. Nathan Perkins be appointed to 
preach the Concio ad Clerum. Voted, That the Rev'' Moses 
C. Welch be appointed the second preacher, on the evidences 
of Christianity, the evening preceding the next Commence- 
ment at N. Haven. 

Contributions in the New Settlements <fec. Voted, That tlie 
Missionaries to the frontiers be, instructed, prudently to en- 
courage contributions from the various places through which 
they itinerate, to aid the missionary funds : and that they 
account with the Trustees of the missiojiary Society, for tlie 
annual amount of such contributions. 



OP THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 187 

The Committee appointed by tlie last General Association 
to correspond witli ministers in London, members of tlie 
board of Trust, called the Fund, that a determinate method 
of recommending persons coming from G. Britain whose 
standing as Ministers is good, be fixed, Reported, that no 
Letters had been received, in answer to those written to 
London on the above subject. 

Voted ; That the same Gentlemen be continued a commit- 
tee of Correspondence, viz : Rev^ Dr. Benjamin Trumbull, 
Rev^i Dr. Dwight, and Rev^ Samuel Blatchford. 

On motion adjourned at i past 9 o'clock until 5 o'clock 
tomorrow morning. June 21. 

Met according to adjournment — Began with prayer. 

A Committee consisting of three members were chosen to 
correspond with the General Convention of the State of Ver- 
mont, and to propose a plan of Union between that Body 
and the General Association. The Committee chosen were 
the ReV' Mess'"^ Levi Hart and Joseph Strong. 

Voted, That the vote of a former Association respecting 
Bills of mortality be rescinded. 

Voted, That the former Committee of Correspondence, 
with the Massachusetts Convention be continued. 

Voted, That the Rev'' Mess" Cyprian Sti'ong, Charles 
Backus and Nathan Strong be a Committee to draw up addi- 
tional Rules, for the regulation of the business of the Gen' 
Association ; and that they report to the next session of the 
G. Association. 

List of Candidates. 

Marsfield Steel — Bolton 

Robert Porter — Farmington 

Salmon King — N.Hartford 
Tolland Sylvester Dana — Wilksbury, Pennsylvania 
County Henry Davis — East Hampton, L. Island 

Josiah B. Andrews — Southington 

Vinson Goold — Sharon 

Amasa Jerom — Stockbridge Massa.*^ 



188 RECORDS OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Western ^ ^^a Meach — Preston 
district in ^Is^^c Jones Jr. — N. Haven 
N Haven f I^y^^^^ Beecher — N. Haven 
J John Niles — Colchester 
\ Steplien Williams — Woodstock 
Windham > Timothy Williams — D" 
) Asa Lyman — Lebanon 

N. Haven | Timothv Field — Guilford 
East j 

. GiUet 

( Thomas Robbins — Norfolk. 

Voted, That the next meeting of the General Association 
be holden at the house of the Rev. Ammi R. Robbins, at 
Norfolk on the third tuesday in June. 

Voted: That the Rev.^' Abel Flint be Treasurer of the Gen- 
eral Association. 

A^oted: That the following Gentlemen be receivers of tlie 
monies to be collected from the particular Associations. 

Tolland — Rev. Dr. Nathan Williams 

Hartford N. — Nathan Strong 

S. — William Robinson 

N. Haven E. — Matth"' Noyes 

N. W. — Bazaleel Pineo 

Litchfield N. — Samuel J. Mills 

S. — Backus 

N. London — Samuel Nott 

Middlesex — Elijah Parsons 

Fairfield E — S. Blatchford 

W — Hezekiah Ripley 

Concluded with Prayer. 

Levi Hart, Moderator. 

Samuel Blatchford, Scribe. 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 189 

The following is the copy of Minutes found by Brother 
David I). Field, and by him left with the Register, suggesting 
a seeming expediency of their entry, somewhere, among the 
records of Connecticut General Association, viz. : 

At a convention of tlie committees of the General Assem- 
bly of the Presbyterian church in the United States of 
America, & the General Association of the State of Con- 
necticut, on Wednesday, the 11^'' of September, 1791, in the 
Chapel of Yale College : Present — 

Rev. Mess"" John Witherspoon D.D., Alexander M'Whorter 
D. D. ct Jedidiah Chapman, members of the committee from 
the General Assembly : & 

Rev. Messrs Elizur Goodrich D.D., Benjamin Trumbull, 
Levi Hart, Jonathan Edwards D.D., Timothy Dwight D.D., 
members of the committee from the General Association. 

The convention was opened W'ith prayer by Dr. Witherspoon. 

Dr. Rogers was chosen Chairman, & Dr. Dwiglit Scribe. 
Dr. Rogers not being in the house. Dr. ^['Whorter was 
requested to take the chair. 

After conversing, sometime, on the business of the meet- 
ing, the convention was adjourned until tomorrow at three 
o'clock P. M. — prayer being made by Dr. M'Whorter. 

Thursday 3 o'clock P.M., the convention met, according 
to adjournment. Dr. Rogers & Mr. Tennant were present & 
the meeting was opened with prayer by Dr. Rogers. 

An extract from the minutes of the convention of the 
Massachusetts congregational Ministers, May 26, 1791, was 
read & is as follows viz : 

In convention of the Massacluisetts congregational Minis- 
ters May 26^'' 1791, an address, signed Elizur Goodrich <fe 
Enoch Huntington, respecting a general union of the congre- 
gational & presbyterian churches, tliroughout the United 
States of America, proposed by the General Association of 
the State of Connecticut, was read: Whereupon, Voted. 
That the Rev. Dr. Willard, the Rev. Dr. Howard, the Rev. 
Mr. Haven, the Rev. Mr. Belknap, & the Rev. Mr. Bradford, 
be a committee of correspondence on the subject. 

Attest John Clark, Scribe. 



190 RECORDS OP THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION 

Dr. Stiles joined the convention After deliberating 

on the objects of the meeting, a committee, consisting of Dr. 
McWhorter, Mr. Chapman, Mr. Trumbull, Mr. Hart and tlie 
Scribe, was appointed to prepare a draught, & report it, 
tomorrow morning. 

The convention was then adjourned until tomorrow morn- 
ing, at nine o'clock, then to meet in the chapel, & concluded 
with prayer. 

Friday morning, 9 o'clock, the convention met according 
to adjournment, & the meeting was opened with prayer. 

The committee appointed yesterday, brought in their report ; 
which being read, considered, amended, & approved is as 
follows, viz : 

Considering the importance of union & harmony in the 
christian Church, & the duty incumbent on all its pastors & 
ministers to assist each other, in promoting, as far as possible, 
the general interests of the Redeemers kingdom ; & consider- 
ing, further, that divine providence appears to be now opening 
the door for pursuing these invaluable objects, with a happy 
prospect of success : 

This convention are of opinion, that it will be conducive 
to these important ends, that a standing committee of 
correspondence be appointed, in each Body, whose duty it 
shall be, by frequent Letters, to communicate to each other, 
whatever may be mutually useful to the churches, under their 
care, & to general interests of the Redeemers kingdom ; 

That each Body should from time to time appoint a com- 
mittee consisting of* — (Here is a blank in the original 
Minutes, to which the following note in the margin, seems 
directly appended, viz : The blank marked with an asterisk, 
was, through a mistake, not filled up ; & the convention was 
dissolved, before this mistake was discovered. But six of 
the gentlemen of the convention, viz : 3 of each committee, 
unanimously gave their opinion, that it would be most 
advantageously filled up by the word Three} who shall have 
right to sit in the other's general meeting, — make such 
communications as shall be directed by their respective con- 



OF THE COLONY OF CONNECTICUT. 191 

stitiients — c^' deliberate on such matters as shall come before 
the Body ; but shall have no right to vote : that effectual 
measures be mutually taken to prevent injuries to the 
respective churches from irregular <t unauthorized preachers ; 
to promote this end, the convention judge it expedient, that 
every preacher, travelling from the limits of one of these 
churches into those of the other ; shall be furnished with 
recent testimonials of his regular standing, & good character 
as a preacher, signed by the Moderator of the Presbytery, or 
of the Association, in which he received his license, or, if a 
Minister, of his good standing & character, as such, from the 
Moderator of the Presbytery, or Association, where he last 
resided ; & that he shall — previously to his travelling, as a 
preaclier, into distant parts, further receive a recommenda- 
tion from one member, at least, of a standing committee to 
be hereafter appointed by each Body, certifying his good 
qualifications, as a preacher : also that the names of this 
standing committee shall be mutually communicated : &, 
also, that every travelling, & recommended, as above, & 
submitting to the stated rules of the respective churches, 
shall be received as authorized preachers of the gospel, & 
cheerfully taken under the patronage of the Presbytery, or 
Association, within w^hose limits he shall find employment, 
as a preacher : & that the proceedings of the respective 
Bodies, on this report, be communicated to our Brethren of 
the congregational & presbyterian churches, throughout these 

States 

The convention then — being concluded with prayer, by 

the chairman was dissolved The above are true 

Minutes of the proceedings of the convention. 

Attest John Rogers, \ Cl>airmnn of the 

) Convention 
Timothy Dwight Scribe. 

The original paper — handed in by Brother Field — is in 
the package of Gen. Assoc^ files, for 1815 — meeting at 
Banbury. 



IISTDEX TO SUBJECTS. 



Address to the king, 19. 

(5f condolence, 45. 

to his Majesty and the Princess, 26. 

to the people, 103. 
Arminianisra, to be protested against, 33. 
American Preacher, to bedistributed, 149. 
Association, General, its organization, 5. 

means for usefulness, 29. 

importance of its doings, 10. 

choice of members, 28. 

time of meeting, 110, 112, 113, 

137, 141. 

failure of meeting, 24. 

records of, fail, 40. 

order of sessions, 137, 143. 

duty of Moderator, 152. 

place of meeting, 159, 165, 170. 

Baptism, infant, neglected, 91. 

of slaves approved, 6. 
Bills of mortality, 167, 171. 
Book ofdiscipline to be circulated, 21, 23. 

Catechism for children, 23, 42. 
Candidates for ministry, examination, 6. 

8, 34, 100, 142. 
Candidates, discouragements of, 102. 
hsts of, 102, 111, 120, 123, 127, 134, 

138, 143, 149, 156, 162, 166, 
171, 187. 

Charge at ordination, how given, 60. 
Children, early training of, 23. 

subjects of discipline, 83. 
Census of parishes, 137, 141. 
Churches, care for vacant, 114, 116. 

disorders in, 14. 

rights of consociated, 44. 

discipline of, 71, 74, 75, 81-4. 
25 



Councils, how to call, 8. 

who may sit in, 113. 

consociations the only, 41. 
Constitution of Miss. Society, 177-9. 

ecclesiastical, 27, 39. 
Consociation, local and general, 27, 28, 
30, 31, 41, 149. 

general, shall there be? 149, 152, 
153. 

of New Haven County, 34, 43. 

dissatisfaction with, 53, 55. 

causes not appealable from, 72. 
Concio ad Clerum instituted, 27, 123. 
Communion, terms of, 16, 48. 
Complaints, how made, 20. 
Confession of faith, new issue of, 36. 

for scandalous sins, 142. 
Committees, church, duties of, 83. 

certifying, 142, 152, 183. 
Convention, Federal, no God, 126, 129, 

general, of committees, 189. 
Contributions for missions, 76, 141, 186. 

Deacons, ordination of, 180, 186. 

Delegates to General Assembly, 184. 

Divorce, when proper, 121, 123, 126. 
of J. Strong, 136. 

Divinity, professor of at Yale, 35. 

Dissatisfaction with Consociation, how 
met, 52-3. 

Disunion, tendencies to, 106. 

Disaffected members not to be encour- 
aged, 15, 21. 

Discipline as related to revivals, 14, 18. 
to be enforced, 83, 94, 106. 
questions respecting, 71, 74. 

Doctrines as related to revivals, 9. 13. 



194 



INDEX TO SUBJECTS. 



Elders, to be circumspect and prayer- 
ful, 12. 

Errors to be avoided, 12, 33. 

Episcopacy, its assault repelled, 63. 
petitions for opposed, 71. 

Expenses of delegates to convention, 
180, 184. 

Fasting and prayer recomraended, 66, 

105. 
Family discipline and culture, 82, 104. 
Fund for widows, 148, 154, 170. 

History of American Revolution, 118, 

120, 121, 133, 146, 154. 
Husband, rights of, 53. 

Indian Academy, support of, 65. 
Instructions to delegates, 71. 
Immoralities of youth, 100. 

Laws, civil, to be enforced, 93. 
Letters of dismission, 18. 
Letter respecting Wallingford brethren, 
41, 42. 

of New York synod, 57. 

to Boston ministers, 77. 

to Governor Huntington, 155, 160. 
Licenses, time to run, 113. 

import and authority, 37. 

b}'^ whom signed, 41. 
Lecture at Commencement, Yale, 118. 
Libraries, Associational, 157. 
Lord's Supper, when administered, 20. 

Masters, duty of, to infant slaves, 6. 
Marriage without bans, 118. 
Memorial to General Association on di- 
vorces, and slave trade, 139. 
Meetings for prayer and conference, 157. 
Ministers, disorderly, 16. 

duty of discipline, 82. 

rights and injuries of, 72. 

dismissed against their will, 72. 

rights by civil law, 110. 

measures for support of, 55. 

from Europe, 175, 187. 



Ministry, importance of a settled, 114. 

Minors, may they vote? 16. 

Missions, moneys for, 100, 120, 141, 153, 

155, 161, 166, 176, 182. 
Missionaries to be ordained ministers, 86. 

time and pay of, 148, 154. 

to be sent to new settlements, 79, 
81, 85. 

mode of appointment, 107, 141. 

appointments, 80, 160,166, 171. 

directions to, 80. ^ 

Missionary Society, 173, 177. 

treasurer of, 183. 

trustees of, 183. 

quorum of, 185. 
Moderator General Association, terra of 

office, 161, 172. 

Nonconformity, reasons for, 97. . 

Ordination of Mr. Day, 118. 

of Mr. Dana, 43. 
Ordinances as related to revivals, 14. 

Pelagianism to be opposed, 33. 
Prayer, special, 38, 66, 159, 163. 

duty and privilege ot, 108, 109. 

family, neglect of, 47, 97. 
Profanity, prevalence of, 23, 
Preachers, Separatist, 113. 

traveling, 170. 
Preaching before license, 118. 
Printing letter of Non-Conformists, 97. 

Dr. Doddridge's address, 98. 

Dr. Edwards' sermons, 100. 

Questions from Rev. Sherman, 72. 
proposed, 121, 131. 
deferred, 123, 131. 

Raptures to be avoided, 12. 
Records to be distributed, 6. 
Reports, annual from associations, 156, 

159. 
Revival of 1740, 9. 

hindrances to, 13, 14. 
Rehgion, things adverse to, 13. 

decay of, deplored, 66, 105. 



INDEX TO SUBJECTS. 



195 



Reply to letter of synod, 59, 60. 
Register, standing, 78. 

resignation and appointment, 160. 
Revolution, American, pre-intimated, 

77, 86-7. 

address to the churches, 89-96. 

history of, 119, 120, 121. 

Sabbath, neglect of, 127. 
Scandals deplored, 68. 
Sermons, election, 131. 

on evidences, 138, 143, 146. 
Separatists, questions about, 113. 

not to be tolerated, 16. 

ordination of, 114. 
Slaves, infant, to be baptized, 6. 
Slave Trade unjust, 126, 127, 129. 
Socinianism to be protested against, 33. 
Students to bethoroughly instructed, 157. 
Seminary in Kentucky, 160. 

Trustees of Missionary Society, 179, 180. 



Universalism, is it heresy? 146. 
Union of Presbyterian and Congrega- 
tional churches, 59, 60, 127, 133. 

Vice, prevalence of, 23, 

before and during Am. Rev., 86-96. 
Voting by defendant, 20. 

manner of in council, 37. 

in convention, 64. 

"Watts' psalms, alteration of, 172, 185. 
Wallingford church troubles, 44, 48, 51. 
Wife, rights and duties of, 53. 
Wickedness abounding, 92, 105. 
Widows, fund for, 148, 154, 170. 
Worship, neglect of, 21, 127. 

Yale College, professor of divinity, 35. 
Youth of the churches appealed to, 95. 
to be instructed, 156. 



lE'DEX OF THAMES. 



Adams, Eliphalet, 11. 
Atwater, Jason, 132. 
Avery, Ephraira, 17. 
Avery, John, 119. 

Baldwin, Ebenezer, 18. 
Backus, Charles, 132. 
Backus, Simon, 15. 
Bartlett, Nathaniel, 36. 
Bartlett, Moses, 22. 
Bartholomew, Andrew, 31. 
Bassett, Amos, 163. 
B^ckwith, George, 9. 
Beebe, James, 30. 
Beebe, David D., 181. 
Bellamy, Joseph, 9. 
Beldin, Joshua, 45. 
Benedict, Noah, 52. 
Benedict, Abner, 99. 
Bissell, Hezekiah, 22. 
Birdsey, Nathan, 22. 
Blatchford, Samuel, 181. 
Bliss, John, 104. 
Bostwick, Ephraim, 7. 
Bordwell, Joel, 62. 
Boardman, Benjamin, 74 
Booge, Ebenezer, 52. 
Booge, Publius V., 168. 
Brunson, David, 69. 
Brinsmaid, Daniel, 73. 
Bray, Thomas W., 104. 
Brockway, Thomas, 101. 
Brownson, David, 139. 
Buckingham, Daniel, 30 
Burnham, "Wm., 5. 
Burnet, Matthias, 144. 

Cabott, Marston, 19. 



Cantield, Thomas, 84. 

Camp, Samuel, 124. 

Chauncey, Nathaniel, 15. 

Chalk er, Isaac, 21. 

Champion, Judah, 48. 

Church, Aaron, 135. 

Chase, Amos, 163 

Chapin, Calvin, 163. 

Clap, Thomas, 5. 

Cook, Samuel, 5. 

Colton, Benjamin, 11. 

Collins, Timothy, 13. 

Coggswell, James, 21, 168. 

Colton, George, 119. 

Cook, Roswell, 129f 

Collins, A. C, case of, 146-7, 154. 

Cowles, Giles H., 174. 

Day, Jeremiah, 109. 
Dana, James, trial of, 48, 51. 
Devotion, Ebenezer, 15. 
Devotion, John, 52. 
Dickinson, Moses, 13. 
Dorr, Edward, 26. 
Dorrance, Samuel, 11. 
Drummond, "William, 74. 
Dunning, Benjamin, 52. 
D wight, Timothy, 135. 

Easterbrook, Hobart, 36. 
Edwards, Timothy, 7. 
Edwards, Jonathan, J 22., 
Eells, Edward, 28. 
Eells, Samuel, 109. 
Eelles, Nathaniel, 33. 
Eells, Ozias, 168. 
Eliot, Jared, 15. 
Eliot, Jacob, 17. 



INDEX OF NAMES. 



197 



Eliot, Andrew, 99. 
Ellis, John, 48. 
Ely, David, 104. 
Ely, Richard, 112. 
Ely, Henry, 117. 
Ely, Zebulon, 129. 

Fenn, Nathan, 122. 
Fowler, Amos, 144. 
Fowler, Joseph, 30. 
Fowler, Abraham, 168. 
Foot, John, 74. 
Fish, Joseph, 28. 
Fuller, David, 158. 
Fuller, Daniel, 26. 
Flint, Abel, 163. 

Gaylord, Nathaniel, 144. 
Gaylord, "William, 7. 
Gold, Hezekiah, 99. 
Goodsell, John, 15. 
Goodrich, Elizur, 61. 
Goodrich, Samuel, 150. 
Gillett, Alexander, 158. 
Griswold, Stanley, 158. 
Griswold, George, 36. 
Graham, John, 33. 
Gridley, Uriel, 174. 
Gridley, Elijah, 144. 

Hale, David, 144. 
Hall, Samuel, 15. 
Hall, Theophilus, 11. 
Hart, Levi, 61. 
Hart, Wm., 5. 
Hawley, Stephen, 70. 
Hawley, Rufus, 135. 
Hemingway, Jacob, 5. 
Hinsdale, Theodore, 78. 
Higgins, David, 150. 
Hosmer, Stephen, 11. 
Hobart, Noah, 11. 
Holmes, Stephen, 54. 
Hooker, Nathaniel, 54. 
Hotchkiss, Frederick W., 124. 
Hunn, Nathaniel, 22. 
Huntington, David, 158. 
Huntington, Eliphalet, 69. 



Huntington, Joseph, 54. 
Huntington, Enoch, 54. 

Ingersol, Jonathan, 31. 

Judson, David, 36. 
Johnson, Stephen, 78. 
Johnson, Joshua, 124. 

Kent, Elisha, 7. 
Kellogg, Ebenezer, 104. 
King, Walter, 150. 
Kinne, Aaron, 101. 

Langdon, Timotlij', 139. 
Lee, Andrew, 163. 
Leonard, Joshua, 181. 
Lewis, Isaac, 67. 
Lee, Jonathan, 65. 
Levinworth, Mark, 36. 
Little, Ephraim, 7. 
Lockwood, James, 45. 
Lock wood, Samuel, 48. 
Lockwood, William, 132. 
Lothrop, Elijah, 65. 
Lyman, William, 129. 

Mansfield, Achilles, 124. 
Marsh, Cyrus, 31. 
Marsh, Jonathan, 117. 
Marsh, John, 158. 
Mason, Elijah, 65. 
Mather, Moses, 28, 
May, Eleazer, 104. 
Merwin, Noah, 122. 
Merrick, Jonathan, 39. 
Mills, Gideon, 21. 
Mills, Samuel J., 74. 
Mills, Samuel, 168. 
Miner, Jehu, 84. 
Miner, Thomas, 112. 
Miller, Jonathan, 158. 
Mitchell, Justus, 117. 
Murdock, Jonathan, 88. 

Newell, Samuel, 30. 
Newell, Abel, 48. 
Nott, Abraham, 17. 
Nott, Samuel. 117. 



198 



INDEX OF NAMES. 



Norton, John, 31. 
Noyes, John, 132. 
Noyes, James, 144. 

Parsons, Jonathan, 7. 
Parsons, Elijah, 115. 
Patten, William, 67. 
Perkins, Nathan, 115. 
Perry, Joseph, 50. 
Pitkin, Timothy, 31. 
Pomroy, Seth, 45 
Pomroy, Benjamin, 26. 
Pond, Enoch, 158. 
Prudden, Nehemiah, 158. 

Rawson, Grindal, 36, 
Rexford, Elisha, 107. 
Ripley, David, 62. 
Ripley, Hezekiah, 65. 
Ross, Robert, 45. 
Rosseter, Asher, 36. 
Roots, Benajah, 69. 
Robbins, Arami R., 74. 
Robinson, William, 144. 
Roland, Henry A., 168. 
Russell, William, 13. 
Ruggles, Thomas, 5. 

Salter, Richard, 48. 
Seward, William, 52. 
Sill, Elijah, 39. 
Silliman, Robert, 69. 
Sherard, Samuel, 45. 
Skinner, Ichabod L., 174. 
Smith, John Cotton, 67. 
Sm alley, John, 68. 
Smith, Daniel, 168. 
Starr, Peter, 99. 
Stebbins, Stephen W., 119. 
Stebbins, Samuel, 139. 
Steele, Stephen, 9. 
Strong, Joseph, 69. 
Strong, Cyprian, 74. 
Strong, Benjamin, 31. 
Street, Nicholas, 101. 
Strong, Nathan, 43. 
Stone, Timothy, 109. 



Storrs, William, 150. 
Stores, Andrew, 74. 
Stiles, Isaac, 7. ' 

Taylor, Nathaniel, 45. 
Tennant, Wm. M., 104. 
Throop, Benjamin, 39. 
Todd, Jonathan, 9. 
Todd, Abraham, 43. 
Trumble, Benjamin, 65. 
Trumble, John, 25. 
Tyler, Lemuel, 163. 

Upson, Benoni, 129. 

Vaill, Joseph, 132. 

Waldo, Daniel, 174. 
Wales, Samuel, 99, 124. 
Warner, Noadiah, 62. 
Wadsworth, Daniel, 11. 
Waterman, Simon, 67. 
Waterman, Elijah, 174. 
Welch, Daniel, 74. 
Welch, Moses Cook, 124. 
Welles, Noah, 26. 
West, Joel, 181. 
Wetmore, Noah, 61. 
Wetmore, Israhiah, 30. 
Whitney, Josiah, 107. 
Whitman, Elnathau, 5. 
Whitaker, Nathanael, 48. 
White, Stephen, 26. 
Whittlesey, Samuel, Jr., 22. 
White, Thomas, 9. 
Whitefield, George, 17, 18. 
Williams, Eleazer, 9. 
Williams, Solomon, 9. 
Williams, Warham, 62. 
Williams, Eliphalet, 65. 
Williams, Nathan, 99. 
Willes, Henry, 19. 
Willard, John, 67. 
Wilhston, Noah, 112. 
Worthington, William, 13, 
Woodbridge, Samuel, 7. 
Woodbridge, Ashbel, 7. 
Woodbridge, Benjamin, 19. 



JUL 20 19U! 



